CALGARY, AB — Digital Alberta (DA) is welcoming today’s milestone announcement from the Canada Media Fund (CMF) regarding the 2026-2027 program updates. The budget for Interactive Digital Media (IDM) has seen a significant $15M increase, bringing the total IDM allocation to $57M—a major step forward in the federal modernization process.

This increase is a direct result of persistent advocacy led by the Canadian Interactive Alliance / Alliance canadienne de l’interactif (CIAIC), with active participation from Digital Alberta and Provincial Industry Associationsnationwide.

“The 2026-2027 updates are highly encouraging signs that the CMF is actively responding to global market conditions during its modernization process,” said Rathan Moorthy, Vice Chairman (South) of Digital Alberta and Co-Chair of the Advocacy Committee at CIAIC. “While we celebrate this $57M win, our focus remains on the ultimate advocacy target of $100M to ensure long-term competitiveness. We are thankful for the commitment of CIAIC to work together with DA and our fellow provincial industry partners to present a unified voice in championing our sector.”

Alberta Studios Surge to Third in 2025 CMF IDM Funding

The latest funding figures highlight Alberta’s ascending role in Canada’s digital economy. In 2025, Alberta studios successfully secured $4.8M in CMF funding for IDM programs, officially ranking the province third in the country. Alberta trails only Quebec ($20.7M) and Ontario ($6M), and has notably pulled ahead of British Columbia ($4M).

“Alberta’s position as the third-largest recipient of IDM funding nationally proves the immense talent and commercial potential within our province,” said Nick Facey, Chairman of Digital Alberta. “As federal support modernizes, Alberta creators are demonstrating they are ready to lead on a global stage.”

Key 2026-2027 Program Updates at a Glance:

• Historic Budget Increase: A $15M boost specifically for IDM, bringing the total pool to $57M.
• Broad Program Support: Individual IDM programs have received a $2.5M budgetary “bump,” providing critical stability for studios.
• Expanded Commercial Support: The launch of a $7.5M “Third-Party Investment Stream” pilot. This first-come, first-served initiative incentivizes private investment. Combined with the mainstream track, the Commercial Projects program now accounts for 43% of the total CMF IDM allocation.
• Return to Two Prototyping Intakes: To better align with the rapid pace of development, the Prototyping program returns to two intakes per year, increasing access to early-stage capital.

Commitment to National Advocacy

Through active involvement in the CIAIC, Digital Alberta continues to ensure the voices of Alberta’s video game, animation, VFX, and immersive technology companies are central to federal policy discussions. DA remains dedicated to working with the CMF and its provincial partners to refine program guidelines that reflect the realities of a fast-evolving digital landscape.

About Digital Alberta: Digital Alberta is the leading industry association for Alberta’s interactive and digital media sectors. We advocate for the growth of our province’s creative tech ecosystem, connecting talent with opportunity and ensuring Alberta remains a top-tier destination for digital innovation.

About CIAIC: The Canadian Interactive Alliance / Alliance canadienne de l’interactif (CIAIC) is the national voice for Canada’s interactive digital media industry, representing the collective interests of provincial trade associations to drive economic growth.