MusicOntario & Music BC present: 
Building an Independent Record Label from Scratch Panel discussion, Q&A, and Industry Mixer
Thursday, March 26, 2026, 4:00pm - 7:30pm
Mills Hardware (95 King St. E, Hamilton, ON)

PANEL: 4:30PM
Independent record labels are often at the pulse of discovery when it comes to new music across the spectrum of genres! In an era of corporate homogenization, tech assimilation, and risk-aversion, we need indie labels more than ever: independent companies collaborate with artists and teams to pursue unique creative visions, campaigns, and content to build sustainable careers rooted in shared ethics and art.

Explore where and how to start and learn about what the day-to-day business looks like to grow a roster and power successful releases.

Speakers: 

• Andrea Guernsey (Wax Records)
• Jordan Howard (Division Eleven Music) – moderator
• Kesi Smith (604 Records)
• Simon Mortimer-Lamb (Nettwerk Music Group)

NETWORKING: 6:00PM
Folk Canada, Manitoba Music, Music BC, Music Nova Scotia, & MusicOntario present: Communities Connect in Hamilton, ON

Interprovincial and cross-genre networking for independent artists & music companies Music industry pros from across Canada are in town to celebrate, mingle, discover music, and bond! Join this free networking session to discover interprovincial business opportunities and build stronger professional relationships with you peers.

A robust Canadian music sector needs connection and collaboration - that means you! Artists and music professional at all stages of career are welcome and encouraged to attend!