Founded in 1970, IEBA provides an unparalleled forum for professional development. As a resource and a network representing billions of dollars in buying power, IEBA is an intimate organization that makes a huge impact.

IEBA and its annual conference stand alone in the entertainment business by showcasing a diverse and uniquely-crafted lineup of live entertainment and by hosting discussions with the entertainment industry’s leading innovators & decision makers.  IEBA’s Agents Alley brings buyers and agents together to discuss the specifics of the upcoming touring season. “The Buying Starts Here” slogan originated from this long standing IEBA tradition.

IEBA was conceived by two talent buyers — Hubert Long and Harry “Hap” Peebles. Peebles and Long felt that talent buyers needed a voice in the entertainment industry. They believed that a group of buyers could share information and, with this shared knowledge, make better decisions. And these informed business decisions would lead to increased success.  From two founding members in 1970 to over 2,000 active members in 2024, IEBA’s focus remains the same: strengthen relationships, foster industry growth, and increase revenue for the live entertainment industry.

IEBA is a membership-based trade association, and we conduct business exclusively within our membership.