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January 30, 2024
# OCAD U building capacity for creative sector
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](https://www.ocadu.ca/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](https://www.ocadu.ca/news/ocad-u-partners-tiff-support-students-gaining-employable-skills), 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
[### The OCAD U Mystery Art Sale Whodunit? Is Back!
More than a decade ago, the Whodunit? Mystery Art Sale was a hugely popular OCAD U tradition, drawing crowds and even public line-ups outside the doors. Now, we’re bringing it back for a new generation. On April 3, 2027, the Great Hall will host a sale of 150 original works by OCAD U students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as artists and supporters from the broader community.
March 5, 2027
](/news/ocad-u-mystery-art-sale-whodunit-back)
[### 2027 Akin Career Launcher Call For Artists
OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designersand Akin have partnered since 2016 to offer this amazing annual opportunity exclusive to OCAD U graduating artists. Two(2) successful applicants will be awarded $2,000 in credits to go towards a studio space at Akin’s shared work spaces in 2027-2028, and $450 in credit for use at Remote Gallery!
January 31, 2027
](/news/2027-akin-career-launcher-call-artists)
[### Call for Submissions: The 2027 Seed Fund for Creative Entrepreneurs
Applications Now Open: The Seed Fund for Creative Entrepreneurs 2026–27 Every business starts with an idea. The Seed Fund helps OCAD U students and recent alumni turn theirs into a real, revenue-generating creative business, with funding and hands-on mentorship from industry experts.
January 11, 2027
](/news/call-submissions-2027-seed-fund-creative-entrepreneurs)
Related Stories
## Related Stories
[### The OCAD U Mystery Art Sale Whodunit? Is Back!
More than a decade ago, the Whodunit? Mystery Art Sale was a hugely popular OCAD U tradition, drawing crowds and even public line-ups outside the doors. Now, we’re bringing it back for a new generation. On April 3, 2027, the Great Hall will host a sale of 150 original works by OCAD U students, faculty, staff and alumni, as well as artists and supporters from the broader community.
March 5, 2027
](/news/ocad-u-mystery-art-sale-whodunit-back)
[### 2027 Akin Career Launcher Call For Artists
OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designersand Akin have partnered since 2016 to offer this amazing annual opportunity exclusive to OCAD U graduating artists. Two(2) successful applicants will be awarded $2,000 in credits to go towards a studio space at Akin’s shared work spaces in 2027-2028, and $450 in credit for use at Remote Gallery!
January 31, 2027
](/news/2027-akin-career-launcher-call-artists)
[### Call for Submissions: The 2027 Seed Fund for Creative Entrepreneurs
Applications Now Open: The Seed Fund for Creative Entrepreneurs 2026–27 Every business starts with an idea. The Seed Fund helps OCAD U students and recent alumni turn theirs into a real, revenue-generating creative business, with funding and hands-on mentorship from industry experts.
January 11, 2027
](/news/call-submissions-2027-seed-fund-creative-entrepreneurs)