Global Music Industry Convenes in Toronto for Make It Music 2026 Conference

Toronto is set to become a pivotal gathering point for the independent music sector this November, as the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) spearheads the fourth annual Make It Music conference. Scheduled for November 10 and 11, 2026, the event will convene industry professionals from 46 territories, spanning Europe, the UK, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the United States, under one roof to discuss and navigate the evolving landscape of global music business.

This year’s Make It Music conference marks a strategic collaboration with the Worldwide Independent Network (WIN), amplifying its international scope. The partnership integrates Make It Music alongside WIN’s own convention, WINCON, providing an unparalleled platform for Canadian music representatives to engage directly with international peers during a period characterized by rapid technological innovation and shifting market dynamics.

Central to the conference’s agenda is a rigorous exploration of contemporary challenges and opportunities within the music industry. Attendees will engage with themes such as the increasing influence of artificial intelligence in music creation and distribution, the development of artist-led business structures, and the expansion of direct-to-fan communication channels. These discussions aim to equip independent music entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive amid transformation.

The opening keynote will be delivered by Liz Pelly, a journalist renowned for her incisive analysis of streaming services and author of the influential book Mood Machine, which delves into the complexities of music streaming’s impact on culture and industry economics. Her insights are expected to set a critical tone for the conference, addressing how streaming platforms shape music consumption and artist revenue.

Adding a creative perspective, rapper and writer Rollie Pemberton, also known as Cadence Weapon, will share his experiences navigating the independent music scene. His contribution underscores the conference’s commitment to highlighting artist voices alongside industry professionals, reflecting a holistic view of the music ecosystem.

CIMA’s leadership emphasizes the importance of global connectivity for independent music enterprises. Andrew Cash, the organization’s CEO, highlights that while the independent sector operates on a worldwide scale, success depends on cultivating strategic relationships and exchanging expertise across borders. The cooperation with WIN is seen as a critical step in reinforcing these international linkages, ultimately benefiting Canadian artists and companies by expanding their reach and resources.

In addition to the conference sessions, Make It Music 2026 will feature evening live showcases, organized in partnership with Global Toronto. These performances will spotlight both local talent and international artists, providing a dynamic space for cultural exchange and audience engagement within the city’s vibrant music scene.

Registration for the event is currently open, signaling an invitation to industry stakeholders eager to participate in dialogues that shape the future of independent music worldwide. The conference’s dual focus on business strategy and creative expression positions it as a significant occasion for networking and innovation at a time when the global music industry is undergoing profound change.

While detailed programming and participant lists remain forthcoming, the collaborative framework and thematic priorities of Make It Music 2026 reflect a concerted effort to address the complexities facing independent music businesses today. By fostering cross-continental collaboration and highlighting emerging trends, the conference aims to empower attendees to adapt and prosper in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven market.