The Big Tables
January 2024
Canada's tax incentives for film, video, digital media and animation projects
PwC’s The Big Tables provide an overview of the many tax credits that are available to the film and video, digital media and animation industries. The Big Tables are your starting place for understanding the incentives offered in 2024.
In brief
- Part 1 - The Big Table of film and video incentives in Canada
- Part 2 - The Big Table of digital media incentives in Canada
- Part 3 - The Big Table of animation incentives in Canada
Part 1 - The Big Table of film and video incentives in Canada
Navigating Canada's tax incentives for film and video
Canada’s film and television industry continues to rebound following the challenges it faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the annual volume of film and television production was $11.69 billion, and the industry generated $13.73 billion in gross domestic product while supporting approximately 241,000 jobs across Canada.1
The film and television industry is of vital importance in Canada, both economically and culturally. It is supported by federal, provincial and territorial governments, which encourage investment by domestic and foreign producers through incentives that help offset the cost of productions in Canadian locations.
1. Profile 2022 - Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA), 2022
Part 2 - The Big Table of digital media incentives in Canada
Navigating Canada's tax incentives for digital media
While consumers have long enjoyed a great variety of choices within the media industry, the way content is experienced continues to evolve. As digital entertainment becomes the norm, the distinction between digital and traditional media is less relevant.
The rise of digital and mass connectivity continues to create new forms of entertainment, heightening the need for businesses to be aware of the tax incentives they may claim, including:
- refundable interactive digital media tax credits offered by several provinces, based on eligible labour expenditures and eligible marketing and distribution expenses
- generous tax incentives provided by Canada's scientific research and experimental development (SR&ED) program, to reward companies advancing in the science or technology areas in the gaming industry
Part 3 - The Big Table of animation incentives in Canada
Navigating Canada's tax incentives for animation
The Canadian animation industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a growing emphasis on digital technologies and innovative storytelling. The industry has seen a rise in the production of animated feature films, as well as an increase in the use of animation in television shows and commercials. Recent trends include using virtual and augmented reality technologies and exploring new forms of visual storytelling. As the industry continues to evolve and adapt, Canadian tax incentives are available to help companies financially navigate these new challenges and opportunities.
The experience you can count on with PwC
We provide a distinctive combination of tax planning, compliance and regulatory experience with industry knowledge to help you navigate the changing landscape and ensure you stay on top of the tax and business issues that are important to you. To maximize your benefits, we keep apprised of industry developments and innovations. Our experienced team of professionals can assist you to meet the industry’s ever-changing demands.
Why PwC
Our unique value proposition: The right partner with the right expertise for the long term.
A passionate team with deep knowledge of the media industry.
Canadian and global expertise, giving you confidence that issues are solved efficiently and effectively.
We help throughout the entire process to ensure all concerns are addressed right from the beginning.
Let us show you how we can leverage our global network of entertainment and media industry-dedicated professionals to get the most for your business.
