Back on May 1st, Great Scott, the iconic Boston, MA music venue, announced that it would permanently shut down after more than 40 years due to the ban on large gatherings because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, just a few weeks later, Great Scott has announced the launch of a crowdfunding campaign in a last-ditch effort to save the venue.
A post to the venue’s Facebook page last week announced the campaign, which is different than a typical crowdfunding effort. Hosted via Mainvest, those who donate will eventually see a return on investments $100 or more.
“This will give people the opportunity to make micro-investments in the business itself with an anticipated rate of return on the contributions,” said Lavin in the Facebook post.
He went on to explain that the money would be used to secure “A lease for Great Scott and to undertake some long needed updates, including extensive soundproofing of the venue.”
The campaign profile on Mainvest notes,
A pillar of Boston’s vibrant arts community, Great Scott has offered a stage to local musicians, comics, drag queens, and touring acts alike, and welcomed music fans of all kinds in its distinctly unassuming fashion. Spaces like Great Scott represent the life force of a neighborhood. As a landmark business for over 40 years we believe establishments like Great Scott are essential to the fabric of neighborhoods, and in light of Covid-19 will need the community’s support to preserve the space for years to come.
While it is still unclear if Lavin and his newly-created business, Chowderquake, LLC., can secure the lease with Oak Hill Properties, raising $150,000 by August 19th is the first step in the process. As of the time of publishing, Lavin’s Great Scott crowdfunding campaign has already raised over $98,000 from more than 250 investors. If the $150,000 goal is not met, all investors will receive a full refund. Click here to donate and for more information regarding the campaign.
[H/TÂ Vanyaland]