In 2026, Edmonton Will Speak for Itself

Edmonton has never lacked talent, ambition, or ideas. Our city has always been home to storytellers, innovators, and creators whose work deserves attention. For a long time, much of that work happened quietly, without the same spotlight other regions receive. That is changing, and the shift feels real.

Over the past year, Edmonton Screen has focused on strengthening what matters most: building local capacity and creating clearer pathways for creators to develop, stay and grow here. That work is reshaping how Edmonton shows up—not just locally, but nationally and internationally.

A big part of that has been helping the world understand who we are and what we offer. Edmonton is known for creativity, collaboration, and resourcefulness. From unique locations to supportive partners across government, post-secondary institutions, and industry, we have a foundation that productions and creative companies can rely on. Just as importantly, we have a community that works together rather than in silos.

Visibility matters, but visibility alone isn’t enough. The real work is ensuring that when people look at Edmonton, they don’t just see potential but they see capability. That’s why our focus has remained twofold: making sure people understand the strength of what exists here, while ensuring creators have the tools, training, mentorship, and support to deliver meaningful work.

In 2025, that meant investing deeply in talent and crew development, supporting early-stage projects, and helping position studios and creators to scale with confidence. This is about more than training, it’s about sustainability. Creators should know they can build long-term careers here. That if they stay, there are pathways forward. That they are not doing this alone.

We’re already seeing what that support makes possible.

Local filmmaker, Dylan Pearce, is developing Legend of Conquest, set for release in 2026, and backed by significant national funding from Telefilm. Dylan is a recent recipient of our Elevation Program, which provides further support in the project's development. It is a powerful example of homegrown momentum growing into reality.

In the video game sector, Caldera Interactive is preparing to launch Rabbit Haul this summer. As a Summit Push Program recipient, their growth reflects what is possible when indie game studios are equipped to scale.

Looking ahead to 2026, the cumulative impact of this work will become even more visible. As more projects move from idea to execution, as studios strengthen, and as more talent choose to build their careers here, Edmonton’s story will continue to grow stronger.

Most importantly, I believe Edmonton will be seen less as a place that needs explanation and more as a creative community that proves itself through its work. The strength of this city has always come from the people who choose to stay, collaborate, and push their craft forward here at home.

In 2026, Edmonton will speak for itself. Not because we’re louder, but because what’s being created here will be impossible to ignore.