Art + Biz Day

Sept 25, 2026

presented in partnership with

Day 1: TAC

Day 2: TAC

Day 3: Art + Biz

Made possible with the support of Ontario Creates

Art + Biz Day @ TAC

Helping all creators find their career path

In partnership with The Canada Media Fund (CMF), OIAF presents Art + Biz Day, an inspiring morning that focuses on inclusivity and diversity to elevate the animation industry. The event provides access points for underrepresented industry members to network, have their work reviewed, be inspired, and explore new opportunities.

Art + Biz Day is open to all TAC AnimaPass holders as well as OIAF AnimaPass holders.

All events are subject to change without notice.

TAC Day 3 Schedule

Friday, September 25, National Arts Centre (NAC), 1 Elgin St.

9:00 am – 9:20 am CMF Welcome, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

9:00 am – 10:00 am Meet a Mentor: Session 1 of 2, Lantern Room (Terrace Level)

9:20 am – 9:50 am Panel 9: Coffee with Animation Pros: Resilience, Relationships, and What’s Next, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

10:00 am – 10:30 am Panel 10: Why are markets still relevant?, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

10:30 am – 11:30 am Meet a Mentor: Session 2 of 2, Lantern Room (Terrace Level)

10:45 am – 12:30 pm Industry Connect: Community Roundtables, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

12:00 pm – 4:00 pm Animators’ Picnic shuttle pick up, Arts Court, 2 Daly Ave. (5 min walk from the NAC)

All events are subject to change without notice.

Day 3: Panels and Activities

Program updates are ongoing! Check this space for more program updates soon.

CMF Welcome

9:00 am – 9:20 am, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

Meet a Mentor: Session 1 of 2

9:00 am – 10:00 am, Lantern Room (Terrace Level)

Meet a Mentor Sessions offer emerging artists the opportunity to receive personalized feedback on their demo reels and creative portfolios through one-on-one conversations with experienced animation professionals. These real-time mentoring sessions provide valuable insight into career development, portfolio presentation, industry expectations, and navigating opportunities within the animation field. With priority access for animators from underserved groups, the sessions are designed to foster greater inclusion, expand professional networks, and create pathways for new voices to access mentorship, opportunities, and support within the animation industry.

Preregistration is required, with a rush line available based on capacity.

More information coming soon!

Panel 9: Coffee with Animation Pros: Resilience, Relationships, and What’s Next

9:20 am – 9:50 am, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

Start the day with coffee, conversation, and perspective. Anchored by personal stories, this session explores resilience, networking, career growth, and how creative professionals can continue to find opportunities and thrive during periods of uncertainty. A welcoming and encouraging discussion designed to set the tone for a morning of meaningful networking.

More information coming soon!

Panel 10: Why are markets still relevant?

10:00 am – 10:30 am, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

With industry shifts reshaping how deals are made, it’s fair to ask: do we still need markets and conferences? This open discussion invites both emerging creators and established professionals to examine the real value of gathering in person, from deal-making to relationship-building, and why spaces like TAC continue to matter.

Speakers:

Brooke Keesling, Vice President, ASIFA-Hollywood

Christine Huot, Director, People & Talent, Mainframe Studios

Rose-Ann Tisserand, Executive Director/Executive Producer, Animation Career Excelerator Society (ACE Canada)

Moderator:

Archita Ghosh, President, Rezolution Pictures International

Meet a Mentor: Session 2 of 2

10:30 am – 11:30 am, Lantern Room (Terrace Level)

Meet a Mentor Sessions offer emerging artists the opportunity to receive personalized feedback on their demo reels and creative portfolios through one-on-one conversations with experienced animation professionals. These real-time mentoring sessions provide valuable insight into career development, portfolio presentation, industry expectations, and navigating opportunities within the animation field. With priority access for animators from underserved groups, the sessions are designed to foster greater inclusion, expand professional networks, and create pathways for new voices to access mentorship, opportunities, and support within the animation industry.

Preregistration is required, with a rush line available based on capacity.

More information coming soon!

Industry Connect: Community Roundtables

10:45 am – 12:30 am, O’Born Room (Terrace Level)

Returning after a successful debut in 2025, this facilitated networking experience is designed to connect you directly with the organizations shaping the animation ecosystem. Through small-group “table hopping,” participants can engage with guilds, funders, and community groups, ask questions, and build relationships that support their next steps in the industry. Hosted by community Champion, Brooke Keesling.