Black Independent Music Accelerator
The Black Independent Music Accelerator (BIMA) is a fellowship initiative created by The American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) with the intention of fighting for social and economic justice within the music industry by amplifying independent, Black-owned music businesses.
Since the organization’s inception in 2005, A2IM’s primary remit has been to level the playing field between major labels and their independent counterparts. In a rightful extension of that initial mission, BIMA aims to serve as a platform for Black-owned independent music companies to grow their business, expand their network, and gain access to invaluable educational resources from some of the industry’s thought leaders.
welcome to our 2021 bima fellows!
BIMA Advisory Council
Placement within the program will include (but by no means be limited to): Fully subsidized membership dues for one year, complimentary tickets for numerous A2IM flagship events, scheduled meetings with DSPs, mentorship from A2IM’s board of directors, and much more. While spaces in the program will be limited, we encourage all Black-owned music businesses to apply for consideration. To all applicants and to our future pool of BIMA fellows, A2IM thanks you greatly for your time and consideration, and look forward to learning more about your business, story, and vision.
In creating this unique platform for rising Black innovators within the independent music community, A2IM’s objective is to pass the mic onto the next generation of Black label executives, entrepreneurs, and music industry trailblazers. In doing so, A2IM aims to be a small part of a larger industry wide movement to craft a new vision for the music industry, one that is inclusive, equitable, and rich with diverse perspectives and experiences. Working within an industry that has profited incalculably from Black labor, artistry, and innovation throughout its immense history, A2IM aspires to be an agent for progressive change.
Benefits to Fellows
2021 Indie Week + more TBA
Exclusive access to meetings with key partners to grow their business
Access to members of the A2IM community for one-on-one long-term mentorship through the A2IM mentorship program
Educational sessions to help understand how legislation affects the independent sector
Regular check-ins throughout the program to understand what Fellows need and how BIMA can provide it
Justice Sponsors
Equity Sponsors
Balance Sponsors
