Updated Mar 17, 2026 by ESAC – Entertainment Software Association of Canada
Canada’s video game industry supports 34,000 full-time jobs and generates a $5.1 billion economic impact, with direct labour income reaching $3.5 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year.
While the total number of firms contracted by 9% since 2021, this decline was limited to micro-studios, while studios with 51 or more employees remained stable or grew.
The sector achieved a $356 million operating surplus in 2023-24, reflecting a 7% profit margin.
Flexible work is standard in larger operations, with 83% of staff at firms with 100+ employees working hybrid schedules.
Nearly 50% of all Canadian studios are currently utilizing generative AI, primarily to assist with the ideation phase of development.
Industry growth is currently constrained by distinct challenges: small firms struggle with funding access, large studios face talent shortages, and all companies report difficulties with market discoverability.
Revised economic modeling for 2021 data indicates the sector's total full-time equivalent employment was 35,250, with a total GDP contribution of $5.5 billion.
Canada’s video game industry supports 34,000 full-time jobs and generates a $5.1 billion economic impact, with direct labour income reaching $3.5 billion in the 2023-24 fiscal year.
While the total number of firms contracted by 9% since 2021, this decline was limited to micro-studios, while studios with 51 or more employees remained stable or grew.
The sector achieved a $356 million operating surplus in 2023-24, reflecting a 7% profit margin.
Flexible work is standard in larger operations, with 83% of staff at firms with 100+ employees working hybrid schedules.
Nearly 50% of all Canadian studios are currently utilizing generative AI, primarily to assist with the ideation phase of development.
Industry growth is currently constrained by distinct challenges: small firms struggle with funding access, large studios face talent shortages, and all companies report difficulties with market discoverability.
Revised economic modeling for 2021 data indicates the sector's total full-time equivalent employment was 35,250, with a total GDP contribution of $5.5 billion.