Through a paid, hands-on training initiative, OCAD University is building capacity for the country’s booming creative industries, which generated more than $55.5 billion, accounting for 2.7% of Canada’s GDP in 2020. 

 

Students in programs such as Experimental Animation, Integrated Media, Digital Futures and Advertising are getting paid to create content for OCAD U LiVE, a 24/7 on-demand digital streaming channel now in its fourth year.

 

They are also gaining employable skills for film, television and digital media production by working in a professional street-facing studio located at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Thanks to a partnership with the Toronto International Film Festival, these content creators have access to professional equipment such as lighting, recording and editing tools.

 

OCAD U LiVE not only trains students to land jobs in the creative sector, but it has evolved into a dynamic, professional, for-profit production house. Clients have included Toronto West BIA, the Centre for Mindfulness Studies and Secret City Adventures. Students have been hired by other production companies, including Zero11Zero. 

 

Other Recent News

Partial x OCAD University Artist Showcase Summer 2025 Call for Artists

Partial and OCAD U’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers are excited to announce the return of our partnership which provides an exceptional career opportunity for OCAD U student artists and recent alumni (2024 grads). Thirty (30) selected artists will be given complimentary 2 year Pro Accounts ($240 value) on Partial and permanent inclusion as featured artists within the OCAD University Artist Showcase on Partial to display their works, and administrate artwork sales and rentals.

2025 Mentorship Program for Creative Entrepreneurs: Call for Participants

OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers is launching a mentorship program for creative entrepreneurs. Running from June to December 2025, this initiative is designed to empower early-stage creative businesses across a spectrum of disciplines—including visual art, cultural production, design fields, media production, social enterprise, technology-enabled services and more. Through mentorship, the program aims to bridge the gap between ideas and successful business ventures.