Madrid, 14 August, 2024

With a new board structure, the global network now spans 43 territories. Independent sector’s collective position strengthened with renewed set of values, and principles for Generative AI. Supporters program launched for companies that want to champion and collaborate with the global independent sector.

Worldwide Independent Network (WIN), the organization that connects and develops the global independent music community, has published its 2023-24 Annual Report, providing a comprehensive overview of its work and projects.

With new member associations in Bulgaria, India, and Paraguay, WIN now operates in 43 territories across Australasia, Asia, Europe, North America, and South America, representing over 8,000 music businesses through 37 national and regional associations. To better reflect its diverse global membership, WIN has introduced a new governance structure with five geographic blocs. New directors from Croatia, Chile, South Korea, Argentina, and India have joined the board.

The report highlights the new Supporters program, aimed at companies that want to champion the global independent music sector. Alongside the national and regional affiliate and ‘friends of’ schemes, it allows them to benefit from meaningful engagement with independent music businesses while helping WIN in its essential work of connecting and developing independent trade associations around the world.

Along with its members, WIN has continued to address global industry challenges. The sector’s position has been strengthened with the renewed Global Independent Values. WIN’s Principles for Generative AI offer guidance in the complex emerging area of artificial intelligence and advocate for high global standards and a joined-up international approach.

Key events of the year include cross-regional collaboration and association-building activities in Latin America and Asia, WINHUB in-person and online sessions, and the annual WINCON conference. These spaces brought together hundreds of professionals from around the world to network, build capacity, and make meaningful connections.

Several companies have joined RDx, the repertoire data portal operated jointly with IFPI. The report also includes two new spotlights covering the independent sector’s commitments to environmental and social responsibility.

Noemí Planas, WIN CEO: “As industry paradigms continue to shift, trade associations keep the independent music sector informed and empowered, ready to tackle challenges and spearhead the response to key issues. As an independent music business, you can contribute to these collective efforts by becoming a member of your local trade associations. Together, we can realize our vision of a stronger, more united music ecosystem.”

Zena White, WIN Chair / Partisan Records COO: “The team and board have visited more than 12 countries in their network development efforts, including Japan where the APAC alliance met to better align as a region. Networking events brought together over 500 attendees in Guadalajara (Mexico), New York (USA) and online via WINHUB. So much network value has been generated that a new global supporters program was launched. By working together, WIN compounds the combined value of its members’ resources, making it effective and efficient, an organisation I am proud to chair.”

The WIN Annual Report 2023-24 is available for download here.

The Executive Summary and Forewords are available in English, Spanish, French, Japanese, Korean, and Portuguese.

About WIN

The Worldwide Independent Network connects and develops the global independent music community. WIN brings together trade associations representing thousands of independent music businesses around the world. WIN acts as a global coordination and support network for the independent sector, focusing on its long-term development and sustainability. WIN promotes a diverse and vibrant ecosystem with full market access and equal opportunities for all independents, through transparency, innovation and cooperation.