Prince Edward Island’s music industry has been growing steadily thanks to training, marketing, networking, and export programming offered through Music PEI. This week, from September 24-26, the organization is hosting Showcase PEI 2018, a conference focused on connecting musicians to export and international performance opportunities. The Government of Canada understands the wide reaching economic benefits of supporting new market development and strategic investments in culture-based entrepreneurs and businesses.

“The music industry in Prince Edward Island has gained national and international recognition. This is certainly due to the exceptional talent based in our small province, but it has also been enabled thanks to strategic planning and investments through Music PEI. Developing business and entrepreneurial opportunities in our vibrant creative sector is a significant contributor to an increasingly diverse and inclusive economy.

• Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown

"Music is a vital part of the Island’s unique culture and a big reason why so many people visit our province every year. Our investment in Music PEI will help to ensure our incredibly talented musicians are supported as they develop the business side of their craft, and are well positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities here and around the world.”

• The Honourable Chris Palmer, PEI Minister of Economic Development and Tourism

“ACOA and the Government of PEI have been tremendous supporters of Prince Edward Island’s music industry providing strategic investment which has assisted in consistent development. Our artists have toured the globe playing on some of the most iconic stages and festivals and have been outstanding ambassadors. Locally the industry helps to provide jobs, improves the quality of life for our citizens and is a cornerstone of tourism.”

• Rob Oakie, Executive Director, Music PEI

• Music PEI was founded in 2001 and became the official music industry association for the province in 2008.
  

• Since 2008, PEI’s music industry has experienced a 400% increase in the number of internationally touring artists. Events like Showcase PEI have been instrumental in developing new business opportunities for the industry.
  

• A recent economic analysis of the Island's music industry estimated that the music industry contributes approximately 1,000 full-time equivalent jobs to PEI's economy and over $25 million to the value of goods and services produced in the province. The majority of these jobs are comprised of self-employed entrepreneurs with touring artists gaining 90% of their income from export activities.
  

• Music PEI is guided by a board of directors, and annually has between 250 and 300 members.
  

Chris Brooks
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569

Andrew Sprague
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Economic Development and Tourism
902-368-5535

Rob Oakie
Executive Director
Music PEI
902-894-6734