Brussels, 15th May 2025

IMPALA, the European association of independent music companies, has launched a new EU-funded support scheme aimed at boosting sector-led initiatives working on equity, diversity, inclusion (EDI), and environmental sustainability. The initiative is part of IMPALA’s broader work programme as a recognised EU cultural network and will provide targeted financial support to selected organisations making a meaningful impact across Europe.

Through this new scheme, IMPALA will support up to two initiatives per year:

• One project will be selected by IMPALA’s EDI task force as part of the association’s Changemaker Award, spotlighting an initiative that drives progress as regards equity, diversity and inclusion.
• A second grant will be allocated by IMPALA’s sustainability task force to a project tackling environmental challenges within the music ecosystem.

The aim is to help amplify the work of organisations already active on the ground, helping scale initiatives that inspire systemic change. The new scheme also aligns with key sector milestones such as European Diversity Month and EU Green Week, using these moments to amplify awareness and encourage wider action.

In parallel, IMPALA will launch dedicated social media campaigns highlighting key resources, showcasing best practices, and reinforcing the role of Europe’s independent music sector in social and environmental transformation. 

Helen Smith, IMPALA Executive Chair commented: “This scheme will further support IMPALA’s commitment to placing sustainability and inclusion at the core of the independent music sector. By boosting initiatives that address environmental challenges and promote equity, diversity and representation, we aim to support those driving meaningful change across Europe. This is part of IMPALA’s role in being a leader in the sector.”

About IMPALA

IMPALA was established in 2000 and now represents over 6000 independent music companies in Europe. 99% of Europe’s music companies are small, micro and medium businesses and self-releasing artists. Known as the independents, they are world leaders in terms of innovation and discovering new music and artists – they produce more than 80% of all new releases and account for 80% of the sector’s jobs. IMPALA’s mission is to grow the independent music sector sustainably, return more value to artists, promote diversity and entrepreneurship, improve political access, inspire change, and increase access to finance. IMPALA works on a range of key issues for its members and started a new co-funded work programme as an EU cultural network in 2025. IMPALA runs various award schemes and has a programme aimed at businesses who want to develop a strategic relationship with the European independent sector – Friends of IMPALA