OFN & OMIC respond to recent potential program cuts at Algonquin College

Your Voice Matters: Understanding the Impacts of Algonquin College Program Cuts

Advocacy Update: Algonquin College proposed program cuts  

Last week, Algonquin College shared a recommendation to its board of governors to suspend 30 programs across a variety of disciplines including: Music, Media and Film Foundations; Music Industry Arts; Bartending; Business Development and Sales; Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management; Tourism – Travel; Financial Services; and Event Management, among others. 

The college's board of governors will meet to decide on the cuts on Monday, Feb. 23. If accepted no new students will be admitted to these programs starting Fall 2026. 

According to the college’s website, the recommendations are “meant to help the College remain financially sustainable and focus on programs with strong student demand and industry relevance.” The college further explained this is in response to the recent federal government policy changes and funding shortfalls from the province.  

Ottawa Festival Network and Ottawa Music Industry Coalition respond to the announcement 

In response to the recent announcement of potential program cuts at Algonquin College, OMIC and OFN are working jointly on your behalf to understand the effects this might have on our growing arts, entertainment, and cultural ecosystems in Ottawa.  

Any information you can share about how these recommended cuts may affect the workforce that powers your business is appreciated. 

We invite you to share your thoughts via the form linked below, or email info@ottawafestivals.ca or info@ottawamic.com.  

Form Link