Canadian Creative Industries Join the Canada Trade Mission to Mexico in Partnership with Global Affairs Canada

Under the Creative Export Strategy, the Department of Canadian Heritage (PCH) is pleased to partner with Global Affairs Canada (GAC) to offer a tailored creative industries business program as part of the Canada Trade Mission to Mexico, taking place from February 15 to 20, 2026.

This large-scale multi-sector trade mission is an opportunity for Canadian creative businesses and organizations with high export potential to take advantage of a government-led trade mission to increase their visibility and expand their network in the Mexican market. During the mission, they will be able to meet and initiate business deals with key industry players, potential buyers, investors and/or partners. PCH will be responsible for selecting the creative industries delegates and will manage the business program for that sector.

Mission details

• Dates: February 15 to 20, 2026
• Location:
  • Mexico City, February 15-17
  • Guadalajara, February 18-20
• Target audience: Canadian export-ready small and medium-sized companies, including exporters from diverse backgrounds, as well as other types* of companies and organizations.
• Eligible creative industries sectors (see definitions below):
  • audiovisual
  • interactive and digital media, including video games
  • live music
  • performing arts
• Deadline for applications: Friday, November 28, 2025, 23:59 PT

To apply, review the full selection criteria, and learn more about the mission, visit the Global Affairs website.

*A limited number of non-profit associations and large corporations may be selected to complement the delegation of Canadian businesses. To be considered for the trade mission, large businesses, trade associations and non-profit organizations must clearly demonstrate how they meet the criteria:

• Strategically aligned with the trade mission's eligible sectors
• Can contribute to fostering partnerships, knowledge exchange or economic development
• Have the ability to bring demonstrated value to the trade mission through expertise, resources or collaboration opportunities

Mission objectives for the creative industries sector

• Facilitate market entry and maximize export potential for small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) in the Canadian creative sector that are export-ready and demonstrate high potential.
• Increase the visibility and profile of companies already established in the targeted market and expand international business development opportunities.
• Strengthen relationships with government counterparts in Mexico to showcase Canada as a partner of choice in the creative industries and promote the expertise and high quality of Canadian creative industries.

Business program (under development)

The program will include:

• networking opportunities with Mexican business leaders
• market intelligence briefings
• pre-arranged business-to-business meetings (SMEs will be prioritized)
• site visits

Mission expenses

There is no fee to participate in the trade mission.

• GAC and PCH cover the costs related to the official program delivered on site (e.g., business-to-business matchmaking services, networking events, and local transportation related to the trade mission program elements).
• Participants are responsible for covering all related travel costs, including airfare, accommodations, ground transportation and meals not included in the program.
• Participants are responsible for making their own travel arrangements, including all air and ground transportation to and from the airport.
• Important: Please make sure to purchase cancellation insurance and/or a refundable ticket in the event that the trade mission dates change or that you can no longer attend.

Funding for travel

The Government of Canada, as well as provincial and territorial governments, offer export financing and other programs that help Canadian businesses expand internationally.

• Please consult the Business Benefits Finder to find programs and services suitable to your needs.
• You may also contact the Creative Export Navigator Service to help you find relevant funding resources.

Contact us

Should you have any questions about the recruitment of the creative industries delegation, please contact the Canadian Heritage International Trade Operations team.

Email: missioncommerciale-trademission@pch.gc.ca

Want to know more about how the Creative Export Strategy can help your creative company or organization to maximize its potential in global markets?

Check out these success stories.

Definitions of sectors eligible for the creative industries delegation

Audiovisual

The Audiovisual (AV) sector includes the creation, production, and post-production of films, videos, and television programs, as well as the broadcasting of television, radio, and podcast content. It also encompasses the acquisition, distribution, and exhibition of these productions through movie theatres, television networks, streaming platforms, and film festivals.

Interactive Digital Media

The Interactive Digital Media (IDM) sector includes video game publishers, design and development studios, as well as immersive forms of expression encompassing other creative industries. This can include exhibitions, public art, and installations featuring digital components.

Exclusions:

• Software publishers that create and distribute computer software applications, including design and support services, as well as web portals and websites that are not focused on the creative industries.

Live Music

The Live Music sector includes live performances in music along with services from artist managers, promoters, and presenters. It also encompasses festivals, fairs, and other celebrations featuring live music.

Exclusions:

• Individual artists who are not incorporated

Performing Arts

The Performing Arts sector includes live performances in theatre, opera, dance, and circus arts, along with services from artist managers, promoters, and presenters. It also encompasses festivals, fairs, and other celebrations featuring theatre, dance, comedy or other multidisciplinary events.

Exclusions:

• Individual artists who are not incorporated

NOTE: Eligibility and definitions for creative industry subsectors may vary across different Canadian Heritage programs and activities.