The Indigenous Music Office (IMO) is a national non-profit that supports First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people working in music. We work to build a strong Indigenous music community by championing artists and industry professionals, creating opportunities for growth, and supporting Indigenous-led leadership in the music industry. Rooted in connection and collaboration, the IMO helps increase visibility for Indigenous talent, strengthening representation to create lasting change so Indigenous voices can continue to shape the future of music.
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What is success for your organization in the coming year?
Success for the Indigenous Music Office in 2026 (IMO) looks like Indigenous music creators and industry professionals feeling more supported, informed, and connected than they were a year ago. We see this through strong engagement programs with Indigenous artists, registrations in our membership portal (upcoming!), and information and opportunities being shared more widely through our newsletter. Together, these efforts create clearer pathways to funding, markets, and decision-making spaces. It also means our work is supported by funding partners who recognize the value of investing in Indigenous-led infrastructure, translating into meaningful, lasting change across the broader music ecosystem.
What are you currently excited about in the music industry?
We’re excited about the momentum we’re seeing across the Indigenous music ecosystem right now, not only in visibility (hello Junos nominees!), but in leadership. Indigenous music creators and industry professionals are increasingly shaping the conversations, building their own infrastructure, and setting the terms for how their work is shared and supported. There’s a real shift happening where Indigenous-led decision-making is opening up space for more sustainable, long-term careers rather than one-off moments of recognition.
What is the greatest challenge you face currently, and how can other industry and artists partners help?
One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that Indigenous participation in the music industry is supported in meaningful and lasting ways ,not only through short-term program grants or symbolic inclusion. Industry partners can help by committing to long-term relationships, sharing power in decision-making, and supporting Indigenous-led organizations with the resources and trust needed to do this work properly. When partners listen, show up consistently, and invest beyond surface-level, that’s where real change becomes possible.
Can you give a shout out to an artist or industry member who is also doing great things?
There are so many incredible people doing great work right now, and at the Indigenous Music Office, we’re especially inspired by Indigenous music creators and behind-the-scenes industry builders who are creating opportunities for others while advancing their own careers, caring for their families, and supporting their home Communities. Whether it’s artists mentoring emerging talent, managers advocating for fair treatment, or labels building Indigenous-first models, that collective leadership is what’s moving the industry forward in more visible and meaningful ways.