Toolbox Grant Program

The Toolbox grant, offered by the Live Music Society, is specifically designed to support venue owners in implementing one-time, practical projects that enhance their spaces for performers, staff, and visitors. This grant directly aligns with the foundation's mission to elevate the live music experience by addressing essential, practical needs of music venues. Unlike the Music in Action grant, which focuses on broader audience development and community building, the Toolbox grant is strategically focused on tangible venue improvements. The primary beneficiaries of the Toolbox grant are live music venue owners in the United States and its territories who operate venues with a legal capacity of 50-300 and present a minimum of 50 music performances annually. The impact goals are to empower venues to improve safety and comfort, modernize operations through innovative technology, address practical challenges with expert consultants, and invest in staff training and education. The Live Music Society's theory of change is that by supporting these specific, practical improvements, venues can significantly enhance the overall live music experience for musicians, staff, and audiences. The priorities and focuses of the Toolbox grant are clear: supporting practical projects that lead to concrete improvements. This includes initiatives like enhancing safety and comfort, incorporating innovative technology, engaging consultants for specialized challenges (e.g., acoustics, ticketing, fundraising, branding), and providing staff training and education. While examples are provided, the funding is not limited to these, encouraging venues to propose any practical challenge they believe qualifies for support, thereby fostering a responsive and needs-driven approach. Expected outcomes include more comfortable and safer environments for all venue occupants, more efficient and modern operations, and improved capacity through specialized expertise and staff development. Measurable results could include the successful completion of specific projects, enhanced venue features (e.g., new sound systems, improved accessibility), and demonstrable improvements in staff capabilities or operational efficiency. Applicants can request up to $10,000 per application, with projects taking place between December 1, 2024, and May 31, 2025, ensuring a focused and timely impact on the recipient venues.