Overview

Independent music venues are more than stages; they’re the heartbeat of local culture, creativity, and community life. They create jobs, foster belonging, and give artists space to tell the stories that shape who we are. 

Venues are also democratic institutions, places where people come together across difference, where joy, art, and expression counter fear and division. And in today’s polarized and politically volatile climate, venues are facing unprecedented challenges, from political pressure and cultural backlash to threats against artists and communities. Yet these challenges also create an opportunity to organize, connect, and strengthen the vital role independent venues play in our democracy. 

The Western States Center Culture Lab Venue Fellowship invites venue owners, operators, and cultural organizers from across the Pacific Northwest and Mountain States to join a seven month journey of learning, collaboration, and action. Together, we’ll explore how venues can strengthen safety, deepen community connections, and drive collective action in defense of inclusive democracy. 

Fellowship Structure 

• Monthly Virtual Cohort Meetings. Engage with peers across the region for shared learning in political education, safety frameworks, and cultural organizing strategies. 

• Biweekly 1:1 Coaching. Individualized support to develop and advance your venue based project. 

• Independent Project Work. Each fellow designs a project that strengthens safety, community, or civic engagement in and around their venue.  

• In-Person Gathering. A central part of the fellowship is an in-person gathering at the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA) Conference, where fellows will connect, strategize, and learn alongside venue leaders from across the country. All travel costs will be fully covered by Western States Center. 

• Time Commitment: ~12 hours/month (February–September 2026)

• Compensation: $6,750, travel for in-person gathering, some financial support for your project 

What You’ll Gain 

• Tools to make your venue safer and more resilient for staff, artists, and audiences. 

• Political education to navigate the challenges facing creative communities today. 

• Access to Western States Center’s infrastructure, resources, and networks. 

• Opportunities to collaborate with peers across the region to strengthen the live music ecosystem. 

• A lasting network of venue leaders prepared to activate in moments of need and possibility. 

Who Should Apply 

This fellowship is designed for: 

• Independent venue owners, operators, bookers, or cultural organizers in the Pacific Northwest or Mountain States. 

• People who see their venues as vital community spaces and want to build skills and networks to sustain them. 

• Leaders committed to inclusion, safety, and community well-being through culture and music. 

You don’t need to be an expert in politics or organizing! We just ask that you be curious, committed, and ready to learn alongside others. 

Why This Matters 

Independent venues are anchors of local culture and the creative economy, and in many towns, they’re among the last public spaces where people still gather freely. When these spaces thrive, they create connection, belonging, and resilience that strengthen democracy itself. 

By organizing together, venues can protect their staff, audiences, and touring artists, push back against bigotry and intimidation, and model the inclusive democracy we want to see. 

Get Involved! Interested in joining or learning more? Contact Chris Orrick, Program Manager, Culture Lab at chriso@wscpdx.org or (503) 893-3803.