June 25, 2013
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Prairie and western Francophone music companies and entrepreneurs will be able to expand their global markets thanks to support from the Harper Government. Funding was announced by the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport) and Member of Parliament for Charleswood—St. James—Assiniboia, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
"Our Government remains committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity," said Minister Fletcher. "This investment will provide Manitoba Music with the support required to develop and diversify Western Canada's vibrant music industry and allow this sector to thrive in emerging international markets."
The Harper Government is providing funding of $1,390,000 to the Manitoba Music Industry Association for a three-year Trade and Business Development Initiative. The initiative will address needs identified in a recent music industry economic impact study and will involve working with SaskMusic, Alberta Music and francophone organizations, such as Les 100 NONS, to help entrepreneurs and companies geographically isolated from the industry's major centres diversify and remain competitive.
Under the project, Manitoba Music will organize trade events to help music companies and entrepreneurs develop new business connections and access international markets; deliver export preparation sessions to ensure companies present market ready products; provide international marketing and promotion support; and help companies adopt new business models and diversify their revenue streams.
"Manitoba is known internationally for producing ground-breaking artists and music companies," said Sara Stasiuk, Executive Director, Manitoba Music. "We would like to thank the Government of Canada for recognizing the value and impact of our province's music industry and working with us to build a strong future. This investment will allow us to offer new and innovative programming to bolster the activity of our industry, increase the business capacity of our companies, work more closely with our Francophone community and the Prairie Provinces, and ensure that Manitoba music continues to reach beyond our borders."
Representing 750 members in all facets of the music industry, Manitoba Music is recognized as a leader in developing and delivering programs to support music industry growth, which generates millions in revenue each year. WD's investment in this project will allow Manitoba Music to respond to critical needs and opportunities in the music industry while continuing to strengthen this valuable economic sector.
Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating, small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
For additional information, contact:
Gabriela Klimes
Communications
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Telephone: 204-983-6243
Sara Stasiuk
Executive Director
Manitoba Music
Telephone: 204-975-0147
