At Ticketmaster, we recognise the essential role grassroots music venues play in the UK’s live music ecosystem. They provide the first platform for new artists, bring local communities together, and contribute to the cultural and economic life of towns and cities nationwide. That’s why we’re proud sponsor the Music Venue Trust’s (MVT) Summer Venues Meetings 2025 – a series of free, fully catered, in-person networking and learning events for those running and supporting these vital spaces.
With MVT’s flagship Venues Day on pause until March 2026, the charity is taking its programme on the road. This summer’s one-day meetings are open to any grassroots venue representative, offering practical updates, peer-to-peer advice, and the chance to discuss the realities of running a venue in 2025.
The series is already underway: July’s session at Cheese & Grain, Frome brought together venue teams from across the South West, and tomorrow the focus shifts to Independent, Sunderland, before heading to The Wardrobe, Leeds later this month.
Beverley Whitrick, COO at Music Venue Trust, said:“We know how important getting together with other venue teams is within the GMV community, particularly for those not in a major city. Ticketmaster’s commitment to enabling MVT meetings & events is so valuable, enabling us to cover the costs so that all venue reps need to commit is their time.”
Tim Goom, Client Development Director – Music at Ticketmaster, added:“The work MVT does to connect and support grassroots venues is vital. These are spaces where careers are launched, loyal audiences are built, and the future of live music is shaped. By removing the cost barrier to attend, we’re helping ensure every venue operator, no matter where they’re based, can be part of these conversations and take away ideas they can put into action straight away.”
Summer Venues Meetings 2025 – Dates & Locations
- Tuesday 29 July – Cheese & Grain, Frome – Completed
- Tuesday 12 August – Independent, Sunderland – Happening tomorrow
- Tuesday 19 August – The Wardrobe, Leeds
Each event runs 11am–5pm with networking drinks after. The programme includes:
- Stats & storytelling – using data to support your venue
- The Grassroots Levy – current status and updates
- Venue Resources & Support – making the most of MVA membership
- Rights Management – expert insights and Q&A
- Values & Ethical Venues – why they matter and how to promote them
- Planning & Agent of Change – protecting venues from adverse developments
Booking remains open for Leeds, and MVT will announce autumn sessions in London, Cardiff, and Manchester soon.
Travel bursaries are available. For further information about MVT events, contact [email protected].
