The federal government’s latest investment through the Creative Export Canada Program demonstrates its commitment to expanding Canadian cultural influence worldwide. With $2.83 million in new support allocated to 12 Ontario-based companies, the initiative aims to strengthen Canada’s presence in global creative markets and help businesses scale internationally. The funding, issued through the program’s Export-Ready Stream, places Ontario at the forefront of the Canada creative export funding strategy, receiving more than half of the national total of $5.2 million.
This year’s funded projects span a wide spectrum of creative sectors—fashion, film, publishing, music, museum exhibitions, educational content, and children’s live entertainment. The diversity reflects Canada’s ambition to grow not only its economic footprint but also its cultural identity abroad.
Major Funding Recipients Expanding Global Reach
Several standout Ontario companies received substantial funding to support major international expansions. Toronto-based fashion brand Kotn Inc. received $595,500 to scale its presence in the United Kingdom, where demand for ethically produced clothing has been rising. Kotn’s strategy includes opening new channels for European retail, strengthening partnerships, and expanding its global storytelling through responsible manufacturing.
LOFT Entertainment, a company known for developing and promoting musical talent, was awarded $403,000 to support international releases. This funding will help Canadian artists reach broader global audiences and enter competitive markets across Europe, the U.S., and Asia.
Meanwhile, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) received $242,000 to support travelling exhibitions. These cultural showcases allow the museum to share Canadian stories, history, and innovation with global audiences while forging new international partnerships.
Strengthening Canadian Creative Content in Global Markets
Beyond major institutions, a wide range of smaller and mid-sized creative companies also secured funding to break into new markets. Alpaca House Canada and Apricotton—businesses that focus on unique apparel and youth-oriented designs—plan to expand into markets including the United States, Japan, and France. These companies aim to showcase Canadian creativity through fashion and design tailored to distinctive cultural markets.
Film and multimedia producers such as Vérité Films will use the funding to bring Canadian entertainment to new international platforms, highlighting homegrown storytelling and production talent. The expansion reflects a global appetite for diverse, authentic content and reinforces Canada’s growing reputation in film and television.
Supporting Digital Media, Science Content, and Publishing
The Canada creative export funding initiative also supports digital and educational content creators—an area where Canadian companies continue to excel. Underknown Inc., known for its viral science and fact-based video channels, is using the investment to push its content into new international markets. Their short-form educational videos reach millions worldwide, and the funding will help improve localization, translation, and platform distribution.
The University of Toronto Press is another key beneficiary, receiving support to expand its eBook catalogue and grow its digital publishing footprint. Strengthening academic and educational exports ensures global access to Canadian scholarship, research, and thought leadership.
Promoting Canadian Culture and Driving Economic Growth
Overall, the Creative Export Canada Program aims to generate new export revenue while elevating Canadian creative intellectual property on the world stage. By supporting companies across a variety of industries, the initiative encourages economic diversification and positions Canadian creators to compete globally in fast-growing cultural markets.
The 2025 investments showcase Canada’s focus on cultural diplomacy—exporting not only products but also identity, creativity, and innovation. As international demand for unique digital, artistic, and cultural content continues to rise, these strategic investments help ensure that Canadian creators remain competitive, visible, and influential worldwide.
Source: BlogTO
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