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Advocacy Update: OFN Champions Festival Industry’s Role in Economic Growth at City Council

Updated: Apr 3

At the latest Finance and Corporate Services Committee meeting, Tara Shannon, Executive Director of the Ottawa Festival Network (OFN), addressed Council to emphasize the essential role of Ottawa’s festival and events sector in driving economic growth, tourism, and cultural vibrancy. She underscored the importance of sustained investment in festivals and events and recognized the critical support provided by the Nightlife Commissioner’s Office in fostering a dynamic and inclusive nightlife economy.



A United Front for Arts, Culture, and Entertainment

OFN was proud to present alongside our partners in this space, including Erin Benjamin, President and CEO of the Canadian Live Music Association, Catherine Callary VP, Destination Development at Ottawa Tourism, and Mélanie Brulée, Executive Director of the Ottawa Music Industry Coalition. Together, we reinforced the message that arts, culture, and entertainment are fundamental to Ottawa’s identity and economic success. We vehemently support the work of the Nightlife Commissioner's Office to breakdown silos and facilitate space for creative placemaking and activity in our city. A collective voice ensures strong representation and continued advocacy for the sector.


Following discussions on the increasing financial pressures facing festival and event organizations—especially regarding logistics and security costs—OFN welcomed the acknowledgement by Councillor Jeff Leiper that "the costs associated with logistics in the context of a municipal budget are relatively small, and I think this Council needs to think about how we're going to ensure that those events continue moving forward because of the economic impact that they have." (timestamp 2:51:27)


Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan Implementation Updates

Among the updates provided in yesterday's meeting, here are the key points that may directly or indirectly impact our sector. You can read the full report here (section 6.1).


New Investments in Economic Development and Downtown Revitalization

The Province is committing $18.5 million over three years through the Ontario-Ottawa Agreement to support economic development objectives and revitalize Ottawa’s downtown core. Key initiatives include:

  • Enhancing public spaces in downtown Ottawa.

  • Implementing the ByWard Market Public Realm Plan for streetscape renewal.

  • Expanding marketing efforts to promote downtown as a vibrant economic hub.

These improvements will directly benefit festivals and events that rely on well-maintained and accessible public spaces to engage audiences and stimulate local businesses.


Collaboration with Bloomberg Associates

The City is working with Bloomberg Associates to identify innovative solutions that promote economic growth and capitalize on emerging opportunities. OFN will closely monitor how this collaboration supports Ottawa’s creative economy and festival ecosystem.


Support for Small and Diverse Businesses

Recognizing the challenges faced by main-street businesses and Indigenous, racialized, and Francophone entrepreneurs, the City is conducting a small business needs assessment. Festivals and events depend on strong local business partnerships, and a more inclusive and resilient business environment will enhance opportunities for collaboration, sponsorship, and long-term sustainability.


Expanding Ottawa’s Nightlife and Music Industry

All 10 recommendations in the Nightlife Economy Action Plan are in progress, reinforcing the City’s commitment to bolstering Ottawa’s nighttime economy. A key highlight is the upcoming "Canada After Dark" forum, a two-day event during Capital Music Week in May.


This forum will unite national and local leaders to discuss best practices for managing and growing nightlife across Canada. Additionally, the Nightlife Commissioner’s Office is:

  • Supporting organizations in developing new nightlife attractions.

  • Creating a nightlife-focused website and safety plan, set for release later this year.


A thriving nightlife sector is essential for the sustainability of Ottawa’s music, arts, and cultural events. OFN fully supports these initiatives and will continue advocating for policies that help festivals and events flourish.


Looking Ahead

The discussions at Council reaffirmed the festival sector’s economic and cultural importance to Ottawa. OFN remains committed to working with City officials, industry partners, and local businesses to ensure that festivals and events remain a cornerstone of Ottawa’s vibrant and growing economy.


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