TORONTO, ON (November 6, 2026) –The Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) welcomes several measures in the federal government's 2026 Budget that recognize the cultural sector not only as an essential part of Canada's identity, but as an important contributor to the country's economy, productivity and international competitiveness.

The budget's recognition of the $600 million commitment to Canada's audio and audiovisual sectors is particularly welcome. This investment acknowledges the importance of investing in Canadian-owned music businesses, artists and infrastructure that helps connect artists to audiences all over the country and around the world. CIMA will continue to work with the federal government on implementation to ensure that Canada’s independent music sector receives a meaningful investment from the fund. The government's continued attention to the Online Streaming Act in this budget is a recognition that a modernized broadcasting framework must support Canadian artists and ensure that Canadian-owned music businesses can compete in an increasingly global digital marketplace. Two tax measures also offer potential benefits for the sector. The proposed Canada Creative Credit recognizes the economic contribution of individual artists and creative entrepreneurs, while the Productivity Mega Deduction could help Canadian-owned music businesses invest in the equipment and technology they need to innovate, grow and remain competitive. "What's encouraging in this budget is the recognition that Canada's cultural sector is also an important economic sector – one that generates jobs, intellectual property, business investment and export opportunities," said Andrew Cash, President and CEO of CIMA. “For Canada's independent music sector, the next step is ensuring that these commitments translate into meaningful investment in Canadian-owned music businesses, the artists they work with and the infrastructure that connects Canadian music with audiences around the world. CIMA looks forward to working with the federal government and our sector colleagues to make that happen.”

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ABOUT CIMA:  Founded in 1975, the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) is the national not-for-profit trade association representing more than 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 Canadian-owned global music labels to individual artists, managers, publishers, agents, live presenters, industry-adjacent service companies, including digital marketing, public relations and content creation as well as other national and provincial industry associations.

CIMA Media Contact:

For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information please contact: Jenia Schukov (Manager of Communications & Export Programming) P: 416-998-3705 E: jenia@cimamusic.ca