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# Here’s What to Do at NIVA In Between the Panels
- URL: https://www.hypebot.com/heres-what-to-do-at-niva-in-between-the-panels/
- Published: 2026-06-02T16:10:42.000Z
- Updated: 2026-06-02T16:10:42.000Z
- Description: At this year's NIVA Conference in Minneapolis (June 7-10), some of the best moments might occur when the talks let out.
- Author: Hypebot Editorial Desk
- Tags: NIVA, NIVA '26, concert venues, Venues, independent venues, conference, Conferences, Conventions & Awards, #trending

The [**2026 National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) Conference**](https://www.nivassoc.org/conference/?ref=hypebot.com)is coming up next week, and mostly we're excited about all the fabulous panelists and speakers they've invited to share their insights. Here are just *some* of the featured speakers this year: 

- **Cory Wong,** *musician Vulfpeck*
- **Patrick Carney,** *musician The Black Keys*
- **Fabrice Sargent,** *CEO Bandsintown*
- **Carly James,** *touring agent CAA*
- **Jacob Frey,* Mayor City of Minneapolis*
- **Jordan Klepper,** *comedian The Daily Show*
- **Jimmy Jam,** *music producer*
- **Cornbread Harris,** *musician*
- **Taylor Mims,** *senior editor Billboard*
- **Andrea Swensson,** *music journalist Slingshot Annie*

But we're also excited about what's going to happen when the mics get unplugged. In other words, there are so many opportunities for **networking, mingling, workshopping, pitching, sharing,** and **experiencing,** that some of the most impactful moments might just be what happens between the panels. 

Presented by **Eventbrite**, the event will take place **June 7-10, 2026, in Minneapolis, MN**, and brings together venue owners, promoters, bookers, agents and service providers to tackle the most pressing issues in the live music ecosystem. 

Below are some of the micro-event descriptions for next week's conference. Check out the full programming schedule [**here.**](https://www.nivassoc.org/conference?ref=hypebot.com#featured)

## Agent / Booker Hub

![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e91157c96fe495a4baf48f2/f1d7039c-6605-4326-8600-7f78d289beda/NIVA26-AgentBookerHub-1080x1350.png)

#### Dedicated space to strengthen relationships that power Touring

- Agent/Booker Programming: Conversations exploring the evolving touring landscape and the partnerships driving successful live events
- Networking Lunch: Structured time to foster meaningful connections between agents, bookers, promoters, and venue professionals
- Booking Row:Meet directly with agents to discuss artists and routing
- Salute to Booking Mixer: Celebrating the partnerships that bring live music to communities

## Networking Sessions

![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e91157c96fe495a4baf48f2/f54e334b-08b1-46fb-b6cd-234c5c400806/niva25-day02-attendees-09.jpg)

#### Dedicated, structured opportunities to connect with peers

- Bookers & Talent Buyers
- Festivals
- Marketing
- Nonprofit Presenters & Performing Arts Centers
- Operations
- Small Venues (Under 500 Capacity)
- Ticketing

## Programming Tracks

![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e91157c96fe495a4baf48f2/f557ae3f-5a01-44d4-af32-b77d01b65582/niva25-attendees-01.jpg)

#### Topic-based pathways to tailor your conference experience

- Advocacy & Policy
- Booking & Talent Buying
- Comedy & Alternative Programming
- Marketing & Ticketing
- Nonprofit, Theaters & University Presenters
- Operations, Finance & Accessibility

## Daily Activations

![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e91157c96fe495a4baf48f2/9a38a2a3-564e-4e33-b645-6c72695246ff/NIVA24-genhall-exhibits-02.jpg?format=2500w)

#### Spaces & Moments to Recharge & Connect Beyond Sessions

- Working Lounge, presented by AXS: Quiet space for attendees to work, meet, and recharge
- Exhibit Space: Dedicated space for sponsors and industry partners to connect directly with attendees
- Alley Bar: Outdoor networking space with complimentary beverages
- Recovery Unplugged: Wellness resources during the conference in support of individuals in recovery

[Register for NIVA 2026 here.](https://www.nivassoc.org/conference?ref=hypebot.com)