From Canada to the world: The growing impact of YouTube’s creator economy
Over the past year, the creator economy has continued to accelerate, transforming digital content into a vital engine for the national economy. The latest analysis from Oxford Economics reveals that in 2025, YouTube's creative ecosystem contributed over $2 billion to Canada’s GDP, while supporting more than 35,000 full-time equivalent jobs. 1
This economic growth is driven by the global appeal of Canadian content, and a platform built to invest in content creation. In 2024 alone, YouTube’s unique revenue sharing model paid out more than $32B globally, making YouTube the second largest contributor in terms of content spend. 2 Today, over 90% of watch time on content produced by Canadian channels comes from outside the country. This borderless reach empowers local creators and small businesses to scale internationally, with 80% of Canadian SMBs on the platform reporting it played a vital role in growing their corporate revenue.
A streaming platform for discovery and knowledge
Beyond economic impact, YouTube serves as a premier destination for learning and high-quality information. The report found that: 1
- 81% of users use the platform to gather information and expand their knowledge.
- 98% of Canadian teachers who use YouTube have integrated platform content into their lessons and assignments.
- 75% of users who look for news on the platform say it is a high-quality source for information on current events.
From teachers in the classroom reinforcing learning through engaging video content, to artists finding a global stage, and local creators redefining entertainment, we’re committed to supporting the most vibrant and diversified creative economy in the world. We’ll continue to partner with creators, artists, brands, and news & media organizations to sustain this cultural and economic engine.
Find out more in the report.
