(April 2, 2026 – Toronto, Ontario) –
Today is a significant moment for Canada’s Interactive Digital Media (IDM) industry, thanks to the Canada Media Fund.
The CMF delivered the largest budget increase our sector has ever seen: a 36% increase in IDM funding, from $42M to $57M. This followed extensive CMF consultation efforts involving The Canadian Interactive Alliance (CIAIC), of which Interactive Ontario (IO) is a member, including IO’s own consultations with its members and advocacy committee, and sustained coast-to-coast CIAIC advocacy.
Key highlights include the creation of a new pilot Third-Party Investment Stream within the Commercial Projects Program, with a new pilot recoupment policy, and eligible third-party investments, including public funds such as the Ontario Creates IP Fund. The latter is something that IO strongly advocated for, in collaboration with Ontario Creates. Additional highlights include the new eligibility of exhibition costs for immersive installations, and the return of two annual deadlines for the Prototyping Program.
These outcomes reflect what is possible when industry speaks with one voice and all stakeholders collaborate towards a common goal. We are deeply grateful to our members, advocacy committee and board, our CIAIC colleagues and Executive Director Noah Decter-Jackson, Canadian Heritage, and the CMF team and board for their openness, collaboration, and shared commitment to elevating Canada’s techno-creative sector on the world stage.
Together, we are stronger.
