Ontario Investing in London’s Local Music Industry
March 18, 2026
Funding will help boost number of live music events
NEWS
LONDON – The Ontario government is supporting London through a total investment of $47,500 across three different organizations to help deliver and promote more live music events such as festivals and concerts.
The funding is being delivered through Ontario Creates, an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. The announcement was made by Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex.
Recipient organizations are as follows:
- London Committee of Cross Cultural Arts Inc. is receiving $12,500 to support the Sunfest World Music & Jazz Concert Series, December 1, 2025 – November 30, 2026, that reflects diversity in ethnicity, gender, and genre.
- London Music Hall is receiving $20,000 to support the Canadian Classic Music Series, consisting of 15-18 concerts across multiple venues.
- Rastafest Inc. is receiving $15,000 to support the Rastafest (Aug 15-16, Little Jamaica) & Sistahfest (Apr 26, Nia Centre).
“Our government recognizes the important role the music industry plays in fostering dynamic and thriving communities across Ontario,” said Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex. “This support will help the London Music Hall, Rastafest inc., and London Committee of Cross Cultural Arts continue to create more opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talent – strengthening the local economy and drawing more visitors to London and communities across the province.”
The Ontario Music Investment Fund: Live Music stream is designed to support businesses and organizations that produce or promote live music events featuring Canadian artists, including eligible music festivals and concert series.
The government is protecting Ontario by supporting workers, businesses, communities and jobs in the face of ongoing economic uncertainty, while building a strong foundation for a resilient and competitive future.
“Ontario’s vibrant and diverse music industry draws millions of fans from around the world to hear and experience memorable concerts and festivals in several genres,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Protecting and promoting the development of homegrown talent and investing in bands and events that tell our stories is a top priority for our government. I’m pleased these organizations are being provided with funding to help the music industry shine on the global stage.”
QUICK FACTS
- Ontario Creates is an agency of the Government of Ontario that promotes, enhances and leverages investment, jobs and original content creation in the province’s book publishing, film and television, interactive digital media, magazine publishing and music industries.
CONTACT
Email: steve.pinsonneault@pc.ola.org
Strathroy Office: 519-245-8696
Wallaceburg Office: 519-627-1015