Cape Breton Artists Strike a Chord in International Markets

Government of Canada supports export-ready artists

November 17, 2016 – Sydney, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Cape Breton has long been known for its talented musicians, singers and songwriters, many of whom have made their mark in international markets. With Government of Canada support announced today by the Honourable Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, the Cape Breton Music Industry Co-operative (CBMIC) will continue its focus on the development of Cape Breton’s music industry, bringing local artists to international stages and presenting music as a viable career option. Today’s announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

CBMIC is receiving a $144,000 non-repayable contribution, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, to help them create and deliver a variety of career development programs and resources for artists to gain knowledge, skills and support as they begin and grow their musical careers. This funding also supports a product development fund to assist new artists with the creation of products and materials.

The Government of Nova Scotia, through Communities, Culture and Heritage, has also contributed $20,000 towards this project.

Each year CBMIC hosts a Cape Breton Artists’ Showcase at both East Coast Music Week and Nova Scotia Music Week, and produces the Presenters and Media Program during the annual Celtic Colours International Festival. CBMIC has also showcased Cape Breton artists at international events such as Celtic Connections in Glasgow, Scotland. These showcases and programs connect key national and international delegates and media with Cape Breton artists and industry representatives.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada, together with the Province of Nova Scotia and the private sector, recognizes the importance of the music industry to our economy and the export potential of our region’s performers. We remain committed to investing in projects and initiatives that build on Atlantic Canada’s competitive advantages, including the promotion of our region’s performers as they showcase their talents to the world.”

−      The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Atlantic Canada is renowned for its music and is recognized for its vibrant arts and cultural industries sectors. The Government of Canada is pleased to partner with proactive groups such as CBMIC as they work to strengthen the music industry in Cape Breton by helping local artists and musicians access the right resources and connections, opening doors to international markets and exporting opportunities.”

−      The Honourable Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria

“Cape Breton is rich in culture and has a strong musical influence. The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage is proud to support Cape Breton Music Industry Co-operative to grow the music industry, and to bring Cape Breton artists to the world.”

−      The Honourable Tony Ince, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage

"This assistance will help the Cape Breton Music Industry Cooperative to deliver programs directly related to business training and product development. These new programs will build capacity within the music industry not only for artists but also the world-class infrastructure that exists in Cape Breton. The development of the cultural industries is a sustainable and environmentally friendly path to economic stability on the island."

−      Albert Lionais, Operations Manager, CBMIC

Associated Links

• Atlantic Growth Strategy
• Cape Breton Music Industry Cooperative 

• CBMIC on Facebook
• @CBMIC_ on Twitter
  

Contacts

Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Phone: 902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: alex.smith@canada.ca

Albert Lionais
Operations Manager
Cape Breton Music Industry Cooperative
Phone: 902-549-2221
Email: info@cbmic.ca