Cult Tartu Venue Spends Renovation Crowdfunding to Stay Afloat

A Tartu venue, Genialistide Klubi on Magasini Street, has spent almost €30,000 that was crowdfunded through the Hooandja platform to cover its share of larger renovation costs, but instead used the money to keep itself afloat. This came after the City of Tartu decided that an operating grant of nearly €45,000 could only be paid once soundproofing issues were resolved.

About a year and a half ago, residents living near the city center venue voiced concerns about noise pollution from the club, which describes itself as a "subculture" club and hosts parties, live music, music rehearsal rooms, and other events. Since then, Genialistide has implemented some noise reduction measures, but without a building permit, it has been limited in what it can do. The club also faced funding issues and the need to balance safety with heritage protection rules.

Executive director Jaan Kroon said renovation delays were because no solution satisfying both the Rescue Board and the Heritage Board has been found yet. The club says it was also hampered by the city's operating grant being withheld this year, while renovation costs rose.

Kroon noted that the crowdfunded money has already been spent keeping the venue running, as budgeting had been done expecting the city grant. He added that the club has obligations to its nearly 760 crowdfunding supporters and that he is personally liable to fulfill those commitments.

Sten Svetljakov, head of Tartu City Government's culture department, said the renovation deadline was June 1, but work was not completed. When asked for updates, the club cited funding issues. At present, the building permit process has reached a stage where the notice was returned by the city for revisions, but that was some time ago.

Among donors, former Tartu deputy mayor Elo Kiivet said it was too soon to worry, noting that culture today operates under extremely difficult conditions. Another former deputy mayor and donor, Raimond Tamm, emphasized the need to deliver the project to maintain donor trust, but added that if replacement funds are found and used for the original purpose, then that's fine.

If grant funding does not materialize, Kroon said the club will have to reorganize its activities, for instance by cutting free events and potentially closing earlier in the evening. Svetljakov suggested that changing the club's schedule, particularly events before midnight which have been the noisiest, could be a solution. He added that the city might consider disbursing the grant ahead of renovation completion if the club presents a suitable compromise.