FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Canada’s Independent Music Industry Comes Together Again for CIMA’s Annual AFTERPARTY in Hamilton [Hamilton, ON – March 19, 2026] - The Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) will host its 5^th annual CIMA AFTERPARTY on Saturday, March 28 at Bridgeworks, bringing together Canada’s independent music community for a night of live music, connection, and celebration. Held each year during Canada’s biggest week in music, the CIMA AFTERPARTY has become the independent sector’s largest industry gathering - a chance for artists, labels, managers, publishers, and music companies from across the country to celebrate the continued growth and global success of Canada’s independent music scene. The event comes at a time when independent music is experiencing explosive global growth. Independent artists are now the fastest-growing segment of the recorded music business worldwide, with more than 50% of music consumed on major platforms in 2025 coming from the independent sector. In Canada, independent artists represented 70% of nominees at this year’s JUNO Awards. This year’s AFTERPARTY will feature:

• Live Performances: A curated lineup of some of Canada’s most exciting independent artists, along with a few surprise appearances.
• Industry Networking: Members of Canada’s national independent music community connecting and celebrating their successes both at home and abroad.
• Exclusive Sponsor Experiences: Unique activations throughout the venue presented by CIMA’s partners.

Guests will be welcomed by The Orchard Cocktail Bar, while Tixr will present the live talent performing on stage. PANORAMA will keep the energy going late into the night by presenting our DJ,and Believe Canada will capture the evening’s memorable moments at their photo booth. The night will also feature a dedicated Green Room presented by the Canadian Federation of Musicians, A/V production powered by Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland, and beverages from Jackson Triggs and Hamilton-based Rock & Union Spirits, helping guests raise a glass to Canada’s thriving independent music sector. CIMA also thanks FACTOR for their ongoing support and being a longstanding champion of Canada’s independent music industry. The CIMA AFTERPARTY will take place at Bridgeworks (200 Caroline St N, Hamilton, ON) from 9:00 PM until late. The event is invite-only and subject to capacity.

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CIMA Media Contact: For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact: Jenia Schukov Communications & Export Programming Officer p: 416-998-3705 e: jenia@cimamusic.ca About CIMA: Founded in 1975 CIMA is the not-for-profit national trade association representing over 650 Canadian-owned music companies connected to over 6,000 artists and music industry workers in every province and territory in Canada. CIMA's membership ranges from individual artists and solopreneurs to Canadian-owned global music companies. Its membership also includes music publishers, managers, agents, songwriters, as well as other industry associations, provincial MIAs, and industry-adjacent service companies including digital marketing, public relations, and content creation.