Ontario Investing in Ottawa’s Local Music Industry

March 6, 2026

Funding will help boost number of live music events

OTTAWA – The Ontario government is supporting Ottawa through an investment of $185,000 to help deliver and promote more live music events such as festivals and concerts.

Multiple organizations in Ottawa will receive a total of $185,000 through Ontario Creates, an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. The announcement was made by George Darouze, MPP for Carleton.

“Our government recognizes the important role the music industry plays in fostering dynamic and thriving communities across Ontario,” said George Darouze. “This support will help local organizations continue to create more opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talent – strengthening the local economy and drawing more visitors to Ottawa and communities across the province.”

The Ontario Music Investment Fund: Live Music stream is designed to support businesses and organizations that produce or promote live music events featuring Canadian artists, including eligible music festivals and concert series. In Ottawa this funding will enable organizations to attract artists, support local talent, and put on concerts to showcase the community.

The government is protecting Ontario by supporting workers, businesses, communities and jobs in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty, while building a strong foundation for a resilient and competitive future.

“Ontario’s vibrant and diverse music industry draws millions of fans from around the world to hear and experience memorable concerts and festivals in several genres ,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Protecting and promoting the development of homegrown talent and investing in bands and events that tell our stories is a top priority for our government. I’m pleased to see local organizations being provided with funding to  help the music industry shine on the global stage.”

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QUICK FACTS

• Ontario Creates is an agency of the Government of Ontario that promotes, enhances and leverages investment, jobs and original content creation in the province’s book publishing, film and television, interactive digital media, magazine publishing and music industries.

MEDIA CONTACT

Office of George Darouze, MPP – Carleton
1128 Mill St. Manotick, ON K4M 1A2
Tel.: 613-838-4425
george.darouze@pc.ola.org