The Music Industry: An Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Abstract

This paper conceptualizes the Canadian music industry as an entrepreneurial ecosystem, applying an ecosystem lens to a creative sector where artists act as entrepreneurs. By examining systemic conditions such as finance, networks, leadership, talent, knowledge, and intermediary services, it highlights how cultural, economic, and institutional forces interact to generate innovation and value. At the same time, benefits are unevenly distributed: women, Black professionals, and other equity-deserving groups face persistent barriers to mentorship, leadership, and professional services. The music industry therefore illustrates both the potential and the paradox of entrepreneurial ecosystems. It raises a central question: how can an entrepreneurial ecosystem be considered productive when systemic exclusion prevents full participation?