FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAKE IT MUSIC 2025: Future-Ready Strategies. Bold Ideas. Unfiltered Insights. [Toronto, ON – October 16, 2025] – Canadian independent labels, artists, and music entrepreneurs are gearing up for CIMA’s MAKE IT MUSIC, returning for its third year on November 4–5^th at Toronto’s Parkdale Hall. The two-day conference brings together the people actively shaping the independent music industry, delivering unfiltered conversations, bold ideas, and actionable strategies. “The global independent music sector is growing fast. This period of massive change presents particular challenges and opportunities for Canadian-owned music companies, especially given our proximity to the United States.” says Andrew Cash, President and CEO of CIMA. “As tech innovations continue to disrupt the global market, we need to be ready. The future of music is happening now and that’s why we created MAKE IT MUSIC.” Attendees from previous years have praised the conference for its depth and innovative approach: “Make It Music isn't your usual music conference, and it's exactly what the independent sector needs. I can't wait to go back next year.” What to Expect At MAKE IT MUSIC 2025, attendees will dive deep into the trends, technologies, and strategies defining the future of independent music. From new business and global market opportunities, to immersive brand experiences and growing music communities, the conference delivers tools and insights you can actually use to grow your audience, revenue, and impact. Conference Highlights

• Beyond the Stream: Building the Next Music Business – Keynote How indie labels, artists, and music entrepreneurs are building sustainable businesses beyond streaming.
• Reinventing the Label: The Indie Music Company of Today See how independent labels are transforming into full-service companies, unlocking new revenue streams and opportunities.
• Visual Storytelling Workshop Level up your brand experience with AR, AI-generated visuals, and 3D animation that captivate audiences and grow fan engagement.
• AI vs. Artistry: Protecting Creativity in the Age of Machines Understand the legal, ethical, and business impacts of AI, and discover how the industry is adapting to protect creators’ rights.
• Breaking into APAC: Unlocking Opportunities in Asia-Pacific Learn how to navigate markets in Japan, South Korea, India, and Australia from leaders who’ve done it successfully.

Speakers You’ll Hear From Industry changemakers including Jason Peterson (GoDigital Media Group), Zena White (Partisan Records), Tony Kiewel (Sub Pop Records), plus many more leaders from the global independent music community who’ll share their insights, strategies, and real-world lessons for thriving in today’s independent music ecosystem. Our Partners MAKE IT MUSIC would not be possible without the support of the Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings (FACTOR), the Government of Canada (through the Canada Music Fund), Ontario Creates and, in part, by a contribution from Global Affairs Canada’s CanExport Associations program. We also thank our partners Merlin, The Orchard, PANORAMA, Believe, beatBread, and our media partner exclaim!. Tickets are limited - register now to learn, connect, and build what’s next in independent music. For full programming, visit https://makeitmusic2025.vfairs.com/en/

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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. 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