Speakers

President & CEO of the Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) since its inception in 2014, Erin Benjamin has worked in the music industry for 30 years. Originally as a touring and recording singer/songwriter and then as executive director of FMO, followed by the Canadian Association for the Performing Arts (CAPACOA). An unflagging champion of the sector and internationally recognized for her leadership, Erin has led major industry research projects that have changed how government understands live music, including the first-ever economic impact analysis of the industry, Hear and Now. Currently a board member of the United Way Eastern Ontario, Erin has sat as a volunteer board member with the Ottawa Board of Trade, as chair of the Unison Fund – Canada’s leading music industry charity, Folk Alliance International (FAI), the Songwriters Association of Canada, the National Arts Centre’s Creation Fund, RBC Ottawa Bluesfest, the Ottawa Film Commission and many others.

Erin is the proud recipient of multiple awards including the Changemaker of the Year honour (WIMC, 2024), Estelle Klein Lifetime Achievement Award (FMO, 2023), the Spirit of Folk Award (FAI, 2022), the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario’s Resiliency Award (2021), the United Way’s Community Ambassador Award (2019), and the Ontario 150 Award (2017), all in recognition of her service to community. Erin has twice been included on the Billboard Canada Women in Music Honouree’s list, in 2025 and 2024 respectively.

A Golden Retriever lover, and competitive golfer, Erin has two incredible kids and has called Ottawa home since 2003.