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Budget 2025 Adds Culture Funding, Exempts CBC From Cuts, Eyes Institutional Overhaul

Ottawa pairs a CBC boost with consultations on modernizing cultural institutions.

Overview

  • Budget 2025 sets out targeted cultural spending that officials describe as totaling about $503 million over four years starting in 2026–27, alongside community program renewals.
  • $150 million is earmarked for CBC/Radio-Canada in 2025–26 to support mandate modernization, with the government also exploring Eurovision participation with the broadcaster.
  • Minister Steven Guilbeault says CBC is not required to take part in the Comprehensive Expenditure Review, while Heritage pursues smaller department-wide savings than most ministries.
  • Talks have begun with the sector about a possible consolidation of Telefilm Canada, the Canada Media Fund and the National Film Board, though no decision has been made.
  • Multi-year creator supports include $150 million for Telefilm, $127.5 million for the Canada Media Fund and $48 million for the Canada Music Fund (all over three years starting in 2026–27), and Ottawa highlighted a new $277,200 grant for RADARTS through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund.