A Living Wage for Artists
Ireland will make Basic Income for the Arts permanent
In the recent Budget 2026, Ireland announced it will make its Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot scheme permanent starting next year. The program provides a weekly stipend of €325 to eligible artists.
An independent review of the pilot found that for every €1 of public money invested, the arts returned €1.39 to society through economic and social benefits. Artists also reported improved mental well-being and reduced financial stress.
In the U.S., the Living Wage for Musicians Act has been floated which would reform the economics of music streaming to ensure artists and musicians can earn a sustainable living from their work. But will it ever pass? Read more below...
References / Read More:
https://mixmag.net/amp/irish-government-implement-basic-income-artists-scheme-2026
https://www.digitalmusicnews.com/2025/09/02/living-wage-musicians-act-congress/