In a major step forward for British Columbia’s animation industry, UBCP/ACTRA and the Canadian Media Producers Association – BC Producers Branch (CMPA-BC) have successfully renegotiated the British Columbia Master Animation Agreement (BCMAA).
Effective March 20, 2026, this newly ratified three-year agreement aims to create more opportunities for performers and producers, protect artists in the evolving digital landscape, and support the growth of animated content in BC.
From short-form projects for online platforms to improved performer protections and annual pay increases, the agreement reflects a shared commitment to innovation and collaboration in a competitive global market.
Why This Agreement Matters
The 2026 BC Master Animation Agreement (BCMAA) is more than just a contract; it’s a significant milestone for British Columbia’s animation sector. In an industry facing global competition and rapidly changing digital platforms, the agreement provides stability and growth opportunities for both performers and producers.
For performers, it ensures protections in an era of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, clearer audition processes, and fair compensation.
For producers, it supports the creation of innovative content, including short-form animation projects for online platforms, helping them reach new audiences while maintaining high professional standards.
Ultimately, this agreement strengthens BC’s reputation as a hub for animation, fostering collaboration, creativity, and long-term career opportunities across the province.
Key Features of the BCMAA
The newly ratified agreement introduces several important updates designed to benefit both performers and producers in British Columbia’s animation industry:
- Limited New Media Pilot Project
- Supports short-form animation projects for video-sharing platforms, brand websites, and apps.
- Aims to build and maintain audiences in the evolving digital landscape.
- Performer Protections & AI Use
- Establishes clear guidelines for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in animation.
- Ensures performers’ rights and creative contributions are protected.
- Self-Tape Auditions
- Updated language makes the audition process more flexible, fair, and accessible.
- Pay Increases
- Annual compensation adjustments over three years: 5% in year one, 4% in year two, and 3.5% in year three.
- Collaborative Approach
- Encourages ongoing dialogue between performers and producers to address industry changes and create new opportunities.
Industry Reactions
The newly ratified BCMAA has been widely praised by leaders on both sides of the animation industry:
- UBCP/ACTRA
- Keith Martin Gordey, President and Co-Chair of the UBCP/ACTRA Bargaining Committee, highlighted the committee’s innovation and dedication, noting that the agreement protects animation performers while opening doors to new opportunities.
- Lesley Brady, Director of Contracts, called the agreement a major step forward, delivering meaningful protections and adapting to changes in the marketplace.
- CMPA-BC
- Jason Lee, Managing Vice-President, described the agreement as a collaborative effort that addresses performers’ concerns while innovating to meet evolving market conditions for animated content production.
This response reflects a shared commitment to balancing performer protections, fair compensation, and industry growth, signaling optimism for the future of animation in British Columbia.
The Role of UBCP/ACTRA and CMPA-BC
Understanding the organizations behind the BCMAA helps illustrate why this agreement is so impactful:
- UBCP/ACTRA
- An autonomous branch of ACTRA, representing over 8,500 performers in British Columbia.
- Advocates for performers’ rights, working conditions, and professional opportunities across recorded media.
- CMPA-BC
- The BC branch of the Canadian Media Producers Association, representing more than 160 independent production companies.
- Supports producers engaged in TV, feature film, and digital media, promoting sustainable growth and innovation in the industry.
Together, these organizations collaborate to ensure that animation in British Columbia is fair, competitive, and creatively vibrant, balancing the needs of performers and producers.
Wrapping Up
The 2026 BC Master Animation Agreement marks a significant step forward for British Columbia’s animation industry. By combining performer protections, fair compensation, and opportunities for innovative short-form content, the agreement reflects a strong collaboration between UBCP/ACTRA and CMPA-BC.
It not only safeguards the rights and careers of performers but also empowers producers to create engaging, competitive content for today’s evolving digital landscape. With this agreement in place, the BC animation sector is well-positioned to thrive, attract new talent, and continue building its reputation as a hub for creativity and excellence.