Government of Canada announces over $635,000 in ECMA funding!
Friday, February 19, 2010
SYDNEY (NS) – February 19, 2010 – The Government of Canada is investing more than $635,000 to support the East Coast Music Association (ECMA). The funding is being provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ECBC) and the Department of Canadian Heritage.
The announcement was made today by the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of ACOA and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, and the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
“Atlantic Canada’s music industry is renowned for its ability to produce world-class musicians,” said Minister MacKay. “The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of the music sector to Atlantic Canada’s economy and the export potential of the region’s performers. That’s why we support initiatives like the ECMAs that promote Atlantic Canada’s talented performers both at home and abroad.”
“Our Government is proud to support the promotion of Atlantic Canada’s talented singers, songwriters, and musicians,” said Minister Moore. “Year after year, the East Coast Music Awards allow Canadians across the country to rediscover the creativity and diversity of the region’s rich musical culture.”
The ECMA’s marquee production is the East Coast Music Awards. The 22nd edition of its awards, conference and festival will be held in Sydney, Nova Scotia, from March 4 to 7, 2010. The event is complemented by an international program that brings buyers, presenters and cultural trade officers from embassies and consulates around the world to Atlantic Canada for a showcase of the region’s talent. In addition, the program offers export training, networking and marketing opportunities for Atlantic Canadian performers, publishers and managers.
“In a climate where there are many deserving voices seeking support, I am thrilled that the Government of Canada recognizes the substantial role that culture plays in the lives of Canadians and the country’s economic recovery,” said ECMA’s Executive Director, Su Hutchinson. “ECMA members are amongst the very best cultural ambassadors for the Atlantic region and Canada, and with this multi-event support, ECMA will be able to serve, promote and support their essential talent.”
The ECMA is a non-profit association whose music presentation has grown from a one-day $1,000 event to a four-day international gathering with a budget of approximately $1.6 million. The awards, conference and festival are attended by more than 2,500 industry representatives and performers.
ACOA’s funding will support the association’s marketing initiatives and promotional events, including its annual awards, conference and festival. ECBC’s funding will assist with this year’s International Export Program component.
The Department of Canadian Heritage is also providing a total of $140,000 for the 2010 edition of the East Coast Music Awards.
