We, the undersigned organisations representing Europe’s music sector, oppose the
proposed 30% cut to the budget of AgoraEU. We urge Member States and the Irish
Presidency to restore at a minimum the Commission’s proposed budget, work
towards Parliament’s higher ambition, and secure dedicated, ring-fenced funding for
music in the EU’s 2028–2034 budget.

This article, which was featured in the WIN Annual Report 2025-26, highlights the key aspects of WIN’s collaboration with its European member IMPALA as part of its EU-funded network programme. You can also read the featured interview with IMPALA’s Executive Chair Helen Smith.

WIN has announced the program and speakers for WINCON 2026, its annual global conference for the independent music community. Taking place from November 9–11 in Toronto, Canada, the conference will mark WIN’s 20th anniversary, bringing its global community together to reflect on two decades of collaboration and to shape the future of independent music.

As part of IMPALA’s 25th anniversary programme #WhyIndependentsMatter at So Alive Music Conference in Sofia, IMPALA travelled with a delegation of members to discuss shared priorities and highlight the work of the independent sector across the region.