The Alberta Music Action Plan debuts at Number 1
\nApril 30, 2026
\nNew action plan takes Alberta’s music sector to the top of the charts, boosting talent, amplifying opportunity and turning up the volume on economic growth.
\nThe Alberta Music Action Plan strikes a bold new chord as the first of its kind in Canada, recognizing music as a powerful cultural force and a major driver of economic growth.
\nSupporting more than 23,000 jobs across the province, Alberta’s music sector generates almost $5 billion in economic output annually, contributing approximately $2.5 billion to provincial GDP. With an industry primed for significant growth, Alberta’s government will take our music sector to the top of the charts through the Music Action Plan.
\n“I am proud to launch Alberta’s Music Action Plan, a comprehensive strategy shaped by voices from across the sector. This plan will put Alberta’s music industry in the spotlight, breaking down barriers, creating new jobs and driving significant cultural and economic growth.”
\nTanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women
To inform the plan, Alberta’s government partnered with West Anthem to develop a comprehensive music ecosystem study and strategic reports focused on Calgary, Edmonton and rural Alberta. Recognizing the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the industry, this work identified clear priorities to support the sector. These results were reviewed and validated through extensive roundtable discussions with almost 20 key industry representatives, ensuring perspectives from across the sector were reflected.
\n“We’re thrilled that the Government of Alberta is recognizing music as a serious cultural and economic driver with the launch of this plan. With coordinated policies and priorities in place, Alberta has the opportunity to build a globally competitive music ecosystem that drives jobs, supports artists and businesses, and strengthens and diversifies the province’s cultural and economic future.” Andrew Mosker, president and CEO, National Music Centre; co-founder and chair, West Anthem
\nA key action in the plan is the creation of a dedicated Alberta Music Commission. Building on the success of Alberta’s Film Commission, it will champion the voices of the music industry to strengthen cross-sector coordination and promote Alberta’s strengths on the world stage.
\nThe role of music commissioner will focus on supporting music organizations, artists and related businesses to thrive in Alberta while driving new investment, leading industry development and boosting music tourism. By aligning strategic government actions to break sector barriers and capitalize on opportunities for growth, the music commissioner will help unlock the industry’s full potential and further position Alberta’s creative sectors to be an economic engine for the province.
\n“This is a massive step for the Alberta music industry with a lot of unharnessed potential. Support and recognition within our industry will only lead to further economic opportunity, tourism and vibrancy.”
\nTyson Boyd, owner/operator, Starlite Room
With continued annual funding of almost $15 million in the music sector, Alberta’s government will expand opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs and businesses while increasing the industry’s overall economic impact. An additional $800,000 in grants has also been awarded to organizations, including National Music Centre, Alberta Music and West Anthem, to support early action and ensure the plan delivers results right from the start.
\nThese strategic investments will help attract and retain top talent, maximize the impact of government funding, and strengthen conditions for innovation and creative development. They will also create new opportunities to address and repurpose under-utilized spaces across the province, showcasing artists in new and unique ways to solidify Alberta’s place as a global destination for music and culture.
\n“This is a significant step for Alberta’s music industry, creating stronger alignment, clearer pathways, and lasting momentum for artists, businesses and the broader music community. Alberta Music looks forward to continuing this work alongside the Government of Alberta as it moves forward.”
\nCarly Klassen, executive director, Alberta Music
This plan lays the groundwork for a thriving, dynamic and high-impact music sector by strengthening the full production pipeline. It supports the development of homegrown talent and Alberta-made content while creating clear, sustainable paths for artists and industry professionals from across the country to build successful, lifelong careers right here in Alberta.
\nWith targeted programs, strong partnerships and the leadership of the Music Commission, Alberta’s Music Action Plan will help the sector grow louder, reach further and play a lasting role in Canada’s economic future, with Alberta leading the way.
\nThrough this action plan, Alberta’s government is turning up the volume on the province’s music sector to amplify opportunities for economic growth, global competitiveness and cultural impact.
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Media inquiries
\nJuliana Rodriguez
\njuliana.rodriguez@gov.ab.ca
\n587-338-2302
\nPress Secretary, Arts, Culture and Status of Women
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