The 2026 National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) Conference 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.
Agent / Booker Hub
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
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
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
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
