The Initial Ideas Behind the Creation of KIMS Canada

Why Now?

Canada produces some of the most successful youth content in the world and has historically been a leader in premium content for young audiences distributed internationally. From preschool to teens, from animation to live action, and from linear to digital, Canadian IP has found its place in the lives of children not only in Canada, but around the world. 

Yet Canadian ownership, talent, and creative leadership are being threatened by a lack of investment in youth content, a trend being felt across many territories. This summit will bring together Canadian funders, partners, and creators to build the relationships needed to ensure that our stories continue to thrive not only in Canada, but on the global stage. 

KIMS Canada is designed to: 

- Showcase Canadian creators, studios, and IP 
- Attract international buyers and co-production opportunities 
- Generate real business opportunities 
- Strengthen Canada’s cultural and economic sovereignty in youth media 

This market will also help Canada become a key player on the international stage alongside platforms such as Cartoon Forum and the Australian and UK Children’s Conferences, while offering a unique, Canadian, bilingual, and business-focused alternative.

What an Experience!

KIMS Canada is a highly curated, premium summit inspired by the most successful international models.

Participants will benefit from:

• Pre-scheduled business meetings between Canadian companies and international buyers/co-production partners
• Targeted pitching and showcase sessions
• Strategic conferences and trend briefings
• Networking, organized meals, and social events
• A “show up and do business” format, with everything organized for maximum efficiency

International guests will be invited and supported to ensure the presence of key decision-makers, making the event a truly unmissable opportunity for Canadians.

What Sets It Apart?

This event is more than just a conference. It stands out in several ways:

1. 100% Youth Content
KIMS Canada is the only Canadian market entirely dedicated to children’s and youth content — animation, live action, interactive content, games, from preschool to teens.

2. A Bilingual Advantage and Dual Ecosystem
Canada is one of the few countries with two fully developed youth media ecosystems — English and French.
KIMS Canada gives international partners access to both markets in one place, creating unparalleled cultural and business value.

3. Canada as a Global Hub for Youth Content
The event actively promotes Canada as a leading destination for youth content — reminding the world that global franchises such as Babar, Caillou, and PAW Patrol are Canadian.

4. A Destination-Based Experience
Taking place in Québec City, the event takes advantage of the many wonders the historic city has to offer during the winter season.

Who is it for ?

KIMS is designed to serve:

• Canadian creators, producers and studios (small, mid-size and established)
• Broadcasters and platforms
• International buyers
• International Co-production partners
• Distributors, funders and financiers
• Public and private sector partners

Strategic goals

This initiative is a key pillar of the YMA’s long-term sustainability strategy and aims to:

• Strengthen international co-production and sales
• Create new revenue streams for the industry by stimulating business opportunities
• Increase global visibility of Canadian kids content
• Support small and mid-size companies who are most at risk

Initial Format

Interest in KIMS is growing rapidly, with inquiries coming in daily from Canada, France, Ireland, and other international markets. While planning is still in its early stages, here is a glimpse of what is taking shape:

February or March 2027 (around the traditional dates of the Kidscreen Summit)

Fully bilingual event (French and English)

Planned location: most likely Montréal or Québec City

Several international buyers, commissioners, distributors, and co-production partners will be invited, with other participants joining the event independently

Pitch masterclasses, one-on-one pitch coaching and/or public pitching sessions : live pitching opportunities as well as a dedicated, welcoming talent development initiative, including emerging creators from diverse communities, including Indigenous, Black, and other underrepresented groups, as well as companies

Two dynamic streams taking place simultaneously:

• Conference Program : keynote speakers, panels, and industry insights
• Business Hub : targeted networking and one-on-one business meetings

Daily showcase of the International Youth Media Prize, along with discussions and screenings of new Canadian content.

Registration includes:
- Full access to the event
- Coffee breaks and lunches
- Welcome cocktail
- A tailored social program and restaurant guide will also be provided to participants so they can discover the city at their own pace