British Columbia crooner Michael Buble has helped announce a new fund supported by a $15-million government grant to protect and promote the province's music industry.
Buble thanked Premier Christy Clark for helping create the B.C. Music Fund and says it will help musicians start their careers in the province without having to leave home.
Clark says B.C. has produced some of the world's best-known artists, including Buble, Bryan Adams and Sarah McLachlan.
She says music develops culture, promotes talent and diversifies B.C.'s economy.
The announcement Thursday involves the launch of a Music Canada report, which highlights B.C's music talent and the factors that have put those assets at risk.
Music Canada president Graham Henderson says the new fund will help music businesses produce, distribute and promote the province's well-known and emerging artists.