Venue Operations Experience (VOX)
Workforce Development Program
Great Shows. Great People. Greater Opportunities.
Behind every great live show is a team of people who make it happen. NIVF's Venue Operations eXperience (VOX) program brings together aspiring professionals, independent venues, and industry mentors to expand access to careers in live entertainment, with a focus on individuals and communities historically underrepresented or underserved in the industry.
Through paid, hands-on experience, an interactive, gamified curriculum, and industry mentorship, VOX creates meaningful career pathways.
Whether you're here to learn, host, or mentor—there's a place for you in VOX.
Look Who's Been Part of VOX. Your Venue Could Be Next!
These incredible independent venues have opened doors, shared industry knowledge, and helped create meaningful career opportunities through VOX.
Now we're looking for our 2027 Host Venues!
Interested in joining the lineup? We'd love to hear from you! Check out the Host Venue Interest Form to learn more about the program, what hosting involves, and how to express your interest in participating.
Be A Mentor!
If you’re an experienced pro ready to support emerging talent in digital marketing, FOH operations, or production, we’d love to hear from you. As a mentor, you’ll provide real-world guidance as participants move through the VOX program and prepare for entry-level venue roles. This form is interest only, not a commitment, and final mentor placements will depend on program capacity and participant needs. Click below for more info and the Mentor Interest Form.
thank you to the 2026 mentors!
Congrats to the 2026 Participants!
The National Independent Venue Foundation (NIVF) presents the Venue Operations eXperience (VOX) workforce development program, designed to support under-recognized groups in the live entertainment industry (POC, women, LGBTQ+, and people with disabilities). The program provides hands-on training, mentorship, and intern opportunities to help participants build careers in live entertainment.
NATIONWIDE VOX PROGRAM: Digital Marketing, Front of House Operations or Production
A 4-month program designed for individuals seeking careers in digital marketing, FOH operations or production within independent music venues.
Program Highlights:
📚 15 virtual gamified training workshops
💼 8-week paid internship at a local host indie venue
🎓 3-month mentorship from industry professionals
🌐 Networking opportunities, resume workshop & extended learning resources
2027 Participating Cities To Be Announced in January:
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Thank you to our program partners: Bohemian Foundation, Inherit the Music, Levitt Family Foundation, NAMM Foundation, Nightlife United, and the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
Please consider supporting the Venue Operations eXperience workforce development program and help lay the groundwork for more equitable opportunities in the live entertainment sector. For more information, please contact Christy Culver at christy@nivf.org