Give Iowa's
Artists
A Stage.
A nonprofit dedicated to restoring performance opportunities for emerging artists and preserving the independent venues that define Iowa's creative community.
7
Beloved Iowa stages lost to corporate consolidation
Over two decades, Live Nation, Ticketmaster, and corporate consolidation have systematically dismantled the independent venue ecosystem that once launched Iowa’s most beloved artists.
These weren’t just bars with stages. They were where local musicians got their first real gig, where audiences discovered artists before the world did, and where communities came together around something made right here in Iowa.
“This is not a failure of passion or talent. It is a failure of infrastructure and support.”
Permanently Closed
Blues On Grand
EST. 1989
Permanently Closed
Gas Lamp
EST. 1993
Permanently Closed
House of Bricks
EST. 1997
Permanently Closed
Peoples Court
EST. 2001
Permanently Closed
Vaudeville Mews
EST. 2004
Permanently Closed
Hull Ave Tavern
EST. 1986
Permanently Closed
Lefty's Live Music
EST. 2008
When a venue closes, a cycle begins — new artists lose platforms, communities lose gathering spaces, and local culture is gradually replaced by corporate entertainment. We’re here to break that cycle.
To create accessible performance opportunities for emerging artists by providing financial support to local venues, preserving community music spaces, and ensuring that creative talent can grow without financial or structural barriers.
Programs & Services
Six initiatives designed to rebuild Iowa's performing arts infrastructure from the ground up.
Emerging Artist Performance Grants
Direct financial support covering venue fees, production costs, and promotional expenses for musicians, comedians, spoken-word artists, dancers, and more. No pay-to-play. No gatekeeping.
Venue Partnership Subsidy Program
Subsidies to offset low-ticket-sales nights, funding for sound engineers and production staff, and a "no pay-to-play" guarantee for every participating independent venue in Iowa.
Community Showcase Series
Monthly and quarterly curated showcases with themed nights — singer-songwriter, hip-hop, indie rock, comedy. Low-cost or free admission to bring the whole community in.
Artist Development Workshops
Booking basics, marketing strategy, stage presence coaching, contract literacy, and financial planning — every tool an emerging artist needs to build a sustainable career.
Mentorship & Networking Program
One-on-one mentorship, networking events, panels with producers and venue managers, and peer-to-peer support groups connecting artists with the community they need to grow.
Advocacy & Community Education
Public campaigns, community listening sessions, data-driven research on venue closures, and advocacy for policies that protect independent music spaces across Iowa.
Three Years. One Goal.
A phased plan to rebuild Iowa's creative infrastructure and sustain it for decades to come.
Launch all six programs, secure 3–5 foundation grants, and build an Iowa-wide individual donor base from the ground up.
Expand venue partnerships across Iowa, add new showcase programming, and grow our monthly Spotlight Sustainers program.
Secure multi-year grants and corporate partnerships, and host our inaugural Annual Benefit Concert for Iowa's creative community.
Get Involved
Every great scene is built by people who show up. Choose your role in keeping Iowa's music alive.
Donate
Your gift directly funds artist grants, venue subsidies, and the programs keeping Iowa's creative community alive. Every dollar goes to the stage.
Give Now
Volunteer
Help staff showcases, assist workshops, or offer your professional skills. The scene runs because people show up for it — and you can be one of them.
Get Involved
Partner
Local businesses and venues: join our network. Sponsorship recognition, co-promotional opportunities, and a direct line to Iowa's creative community.
Become A Partner
Upcoming Events
Be Part of the Movement
Show announcements, artist stories, and updates from the front lines of Iowa's creative scene.
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