Music Industry Moves: A2IM Appoints New Board; Beatport opens applications for the Diversity + Parity Fund

The American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), the professional organization representing more than 600 independent record labels, has announced its 2023 Board of Directors, new Executive Committee and advisory board members. Leading the Executive Committee is Heather Johnson (Director of Labeling Operations at FIXT) as President, Victor Zaraya (COO of Concord) will serve as Treasurer, and Tony Alexander (President and CEO of Made in Memphis Entertainment (MIME )) takes the post of secretary. The newly elected board members are Tony Alexander (MIME), Nabil Ayers (Chairman of Beggars Group), Hays Rudolph (General Counsel and Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs at Secretly) and Zena White (COO of Partisan Records ). The organization also welcomes advisory board members Kristin Epstein (COO of Screenwave Media), Steve Kline (President/COO of Better Noise Music), Jennifer Newman Sharpe (General Counsel and Chief Business and Legal Officer of Exceleration Music ), Elliott Peters (SVP, Global Business of Empire), Jason Peterson (CEO of Cinq Music/GoDigital Media Group) and Reed Watson (Co-Owner of Single Lock Records) will bring their expertise and guidance to the organization.

+ Beatport Group opens grant applications for second annual Diversity + Parity Fund . The investment initiative is designed to support organizations that focus on underrepresented groups and promote diversity within the music industry. The fund will provide financial support, editorial exposure and marketing on Beatport's social media platforms to help organizations increase their impact and reach a wider audience.

"We believe in the power of music to unite people from all walks of life, and it is our responsibility to ensure that the music industry reflects the diversity of the world we live in," said Sofia Ilyas, Chief Community Officer of Beatport Group."Through the Diversity + Parity Fund, we are committed to accelerating change and creating a more inclusive and equitable music industry for all.”

Last year the company donated $100,000 to three inspirational organizations: Lady Of The House, Future Female Sounds and #FORTHEMUSIC.

This year, the company increased the fund by 50% to $150,000, establishing two types separate grants: one for small organizations ($3,000 to $15,000) and one for large organizations ($15,001 to $30,000).

The application process will open on Tuesday July 25, 2023 at 12:00 GMT and end on August 22 2023 at 12:00 GMT. For more details and submission guidelines, please visit: www.beatportal.com/fund

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