IMPALA has announced its priorities for its 25th anniversary year following a series of spring meetings in Madrid, setting out a policy and development agenda focused on strengthening the independent music sector across Europe. The organisation said its work in 2026 will build on the business case outlined in Dan Fowler’s recent report, Powering an Independent and Culturally Diverse European Music Ecosystem.
Among the key areas identified are a new finance plan to support growth in the independent sector, proposals for digital market and streaming reform, collaborative projects across the wider music ecosystem, priorities around artificial intelligence, and renewed work on copyright assets. IMPALA also confirmed that these strands will sit alongside its wider programme as a recognised EU cultural network, including sustainability and equity, diversity and inclusion.
For independent music companies, labels and self-releasing artists, the announcement signals the issues likely to shape European advocacy and sector development over the coming year. Access to finance, fairer digital markets, AI governance and stronger copyright frameworks remain central concerns for independents across Europe, and IMPALA’s latest discussions suggest those areas will stay firmly on the agenda throughout its anniversary year.
The Madrid meetings also marked a moment of recognition for IMPALA Executive Chair Helen Smith, who received a special edition of the organisation’s Outstanding Contribution award. Smith has served as Executive Chair since 2007 and has played a major role in advancing IMPALA’s political, commercial and strategic work across Europe. The award was presented during the meetings in connection with International Women’s Day.
Held with support from hosts including AIE and SGAE, the meetings brought together IMPALA board members and industry partners to discuss the next phase of work for the organisation. IMPALA, founded in 2000, now represents more than 6,000 independent music companies across Europe and continues to position the independent sector as a major driver of innovation, diversity and employment within the music business.
Read more on IMPALA’s official announcement.