Alberta unveils first-of-its-kind ‘Music Action Plan’ aimed at growing industry
Posted April 30, 2026 4:04 pm.
Alberta is turning up the volume on its music industry with the launch of a new provincial Music Action Plan — described by the government as the first strategy of its kind in Canada.
The plan aims to boost talent development, attract investment and expand economic opportunities in a sector that supports more than 23,000 jobs and generates nearly $5 billion in annual economic output.
A key piece of the strategy is the creation of an Alberta Music Commission, modelled after the province’s Film Commission, to help promote Alberta artists and strengthen coordination across the industry.
“This plan will put Alberta’s music industry in the spotlight, breaking down barriers, creating new jobs and driving significant cultural and economic growth,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women.
The province partnered with West Anthem to study Alberta’s music ecosystem, gathering input from industry leaders across Calgary, Edmonton and rural communities before developing the plan.
“With coordinated policies and priorities in place, Alberta has the opportunity to build a globally competitive music ecosystem that drives jobs, supports artists and businesses, and strengthens and diversifies the province’s cultural and economic future,” said Andrew Mosker, president and CEO of the National Music Centre and co-founder and chair of West Anthem.
Officials say the new music commissioner will focus on supporting artists, music organizations and related businesses while helping drive investment and music tourism across the province.
“This is a massive step for the Alberta music industry with a lot of unharnessed potential. Support and recognition within our industry will only lead to further economic opportunity, tourism and vibrancy,” said Tyson Boyd, owner and operator of Edmonton’s Starlite Room.
The government says it will continue the annual funding of nearly $15 million for the music sector and has awarded an additional $800,000 in grants to organizations including the National Music Centre, Alberta Music and West Anthem to help launch early initiatives.
“This is a significant step for Alberta’s music industry, creating stronger alignment, clearer pathways, and lasting momentum for artists, businesses and the broader music community,” said Carly Klassen, executive director of Alberta Music.
The province says the action plan is designed to strengthen Alberta’s full music production pipeline, support homegrown talent and position the province as a global destination for music and culture.
