TORONTO – The Canadian audiovisual industry is well equipped to meet the demands of Canadians wishing to consume television and digital media products across a wide variety of platforms, says Valerie Creighton, president and CEO of the Canada Media Fund (CMF).
In her address to the Economic Club of Canada in Toronto on Tuesday, Creighton (pictured) said this sector is a major source of economic activity and jobs across the country and offers the building of attractive career paths for young Canadians.
According to recent data from the Canadian Media Production Association, film and television supports 125,000 jobs and generates $7.5B in gross domestic product (GDP) for the Canadian economy, while the convergent digital media production industry supports 1,610 full-time jobs and generated $118.1M in GDP. Furthermore, Canada is one of the largest producers of video games in the world per capita, along with the U.S. and Japan, and that industry employs some 16,500 individuals.
Creighton added that thanks to the quality and appeal of Canadian television shows like Vikings, Orphan Black, Saving Hope, Murdoch Mysteries and Les Parent, Canada is also holding its place as an exporter of compelling content. In 2013-2014, the Canadian audiovisual media industry had an export value of over $2.4B.
"In my travels as CEO of the Canada Media Fund, I am often reminded that Canada is the envy of many countries because of our substantial support of the audiovisual production sector. I respond by telling them that it is by far one of the best investments we can make as a country because of its impact on our economy, creation of jobs, promotion of Canada abroad and ultimately the strengthening of our connections as Canadians to each other and to the world", Creighton said. "The CMF is a catalyst, supporting a dynamic environment where creators, producers, broadcasters, and distributors partner to generate content for Canadians and world audiences to enjoy. It supports the content that fills the pipes of Canada's growing digital economy."
Since it was created in 2010, the CMF has contributed $1.7B to more than 2,800 Canadian productions, generating $5.9B in production activity for the country.
