Edmonton, Alberta - PrairiesCan
Audiences today have unparalleled access to media and information from around the world, yet locally produced content and the talent behind it remain essential for preserving cultural identity, fostering community connection, and sharing unique regional perspectives. A technological era that provides so much choice also dilutes the power of trusted community voices. That is why it is important that Canadians strengthen our culture and ensure that important regional stories, perspectives, and talent are heard.
Today, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), announced a federal investment of more than $10.9 million to help CKUA Radio Foundation continue their nearly 100-year legacy as champions of local arts and culture.
PrairiesCan's investment will enable CKUA to continue to promote and export Canadian music, arts, and culture to the world. Federal funding will be used to modernize CKUA's headquarters, including the expansion and enhancement of community performance venues that will increase exposure for up-and-coming Alberta artists while providing extra revenue streams for the donor-supported broadcaster. Funding will also be used to upgrade studio and broadcast technologies, enhance community programming - including amplifying rural and Indigenous voices, and preserve CKUA's vast archive collection of music recordings, interviews, and artifacts.
CKUA is a valued source of information and a key promoter of arts, culture, and music across Alberta and around the globe. This investment will ensure that CKUA can continue to promote diverse voices into the future and demonstrates this government's commitment to building community resilience and creating economic opportunities for Prairie Canadians.
