NAICS 7114

Agents & Managers for Artists, Athletes, Entertainers, & Other Public Figures

NAICS 7114: Talent agents and managers representing artists, athletes, and entertainers. Industry overview, trends, and business insights.

Industry at a Glance

Sector-wide aggregates across all businesses classified under NAICS 7114 (2017 classification frame). For specific sub-industries within this sector, see the individual reports below.

Employment
25K
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Establishments
4,998
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Annual Payroll
$3.9B
US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Avg Annual Wage
$155,944
Derived from US Census CBP · 2023 · NAICS 2017
Market Size
$10.8B
US Census Economic Census · 2022 · NAICS 2017

Industry Overview

NAICS 7114 encompasses specialized businesses that represent and manage the professional interests of artists, athletes, entertainers, and other public figures. These agents and managers negotiate contracts, secure employment opportunities, handle business arrangements, and provide career guidance to their clients across multiple entertainment sectors including music, theater, film, sports, comedy, and other performance-based industries. This industry group plays a critical intermediary role in the entertainment and sports ecosystems, serving as essential connectors between talent and opportunities while handling administrative, legal, and strategic functions that allow their clients to focus on their core performances and professional development.

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Market sizing, workforce analysis, competitive landscape, regulatory environment — all sourced from Census, BLS, FRED, and SEC EDGAR.

Industry Trends

01

Direct-to-fan and independent artist management models are expanding as digital platforms reduce dependency on traditional intermediaries, though experienced management remains valuable for strategic career development and contract negotiation.

02

Talent managers increasingly offer expanded services including content creation consultation, social media strategy, and personal branding alongside traditional representation, reflecting the diversification of revenue streams for modern entertainers and athletes.

03

The rise of data analytics and audience metrics is reshaping how managers evaluate talent, identify opportunities, and negotiate deals, with quantifiable follower counts and engagement metrics becoming central to valuation discussions.

04

Cross-sector talent representation is growing, with managers representing clients across multiple entertainment verticals, particularly as musicians, comedians, and other performers increasingly transition into acting, producing, and other creative roles.

05

Remote management practices and virtual contract negotiations have become standard operations, enabling smaller management firms to compete for talent beyond geographic limitations and reducing overhead costs.

Specialty Reports Available on Request

1 specialty industriesavailable on request
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is NAICS 7114? ▾
NAICS 7114 is the federal classification for establishments primarily engaged in representing and managing public figures in entertainment, sports, and related industries. These businesses negotiate contracts, secure engagements, and provide career management services to athletes, musicians, actors, comedians, and other performers.
How do talent managers generate revenue? ▾
Talent managers typically earn revenue through commission structures, most commonly taking 10-20% of their clients' earnings from performances, endorsements, contracts, and appearances. Some boutique management firms also charge retainer fees or project-based fees for specific services. The commission-based model aligns manager incentives with client success.
What distinguishes talent agents from talent managers? ▾
While both facilitate opportunities, talent agents typically focus on securing specific job placements and are often licensed and regulated by state agencies, whereas talent managers take a broader strategic approach to career development, brand building, and long-term planning. Many entertainment professionals work with both an agent and a manager simultaneously.
How has technology impacted the talent management industry? ▾
Technology has democratized access to audiences through social media and streaming platforms, enabling emerging talent to build followings independently. However, it has also created new opportunities for managers in data analysis, digital strategy, and monetization across multiple platforms, while making contract negotiation and deal-tracking more sophisticated.
What credentials or licensing do talent managers need? ▾
Talent manager requirements vary significantly by state and sector. While many states lack specific talent manager licensing, managers often hold law degrees or business credentials. The entertainment industry relies heavily on professional reputation, track record, and industry relationships rather than standardized credentialing.

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