Ottawa, November 6, 2026 

In Budget 2026, the Government of Canada has recognized the essential role that Canada’s artists play in our country’s national identity and economy, and in bringing Canadians together. 

Music Canada appreciates Budget 2026’s reaffirmation of the government’s June announcement to invest $600 million in Canada’s audio and audiovisual sectors and to support Canadian content globally while keeping it affordable and accessible at home.

“We welcome the government’s renewed commitment and its recognition that Canadian content can be supported and promoted without interfering with the streaming experience Canadians love,” said Patrick Rogers, CEO of Music Canada. “Our regulatory framework should help Canadian artists compete in the global streaming market both here at home and around the world. We will continue to engage with the government as it develops its new streaming policy directions.”

Music Canada also applauds the government’s plans to establish a Canada Creative Credit where artists would receive tax relief on earned income up to $45,000. 

“As a working musician, I know what it takes to build a career from the income you earn through your art,” said Miranda Mulholland, Music Canada’s Creative Culture Advisor. “The Canada Creative Credit is a landmark recognition that artists are small businesses whose work drives both our economy and our national identity. Letting artists keep more of what they earn can help them invest in their next recording or further develop their craft. I’m glad to see the government taking this step, and I look forward to helping make sure the credit reflects how artists actually earn a living.” 

Budget 2026 also exemplifies the government’s continued support of copyright while it invests in AI innovation. The music industry is building a global licensing marketplace for AI, developing new tools for human artists to elevate their creativity and deliver exciting new ways to engage with their fans. At the core of this marketplace of responsible AI innovation is a respect for copyright and we appreciate the Canadian Government’s continued global leadership on this front.