Five things about APTN that I bet you didn’t know

Did You Know?

APTN is NOT funded by government organizations. – APTN does not receive government funding for operations but generates revenue through subscriber fees, advertising sales and strategic partnerships.

APTN is the FIRST NATIONAL Aboriginal television network in the world with programming by, for and about Aboriginal Peoples. For the first time in broadcast history, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples have the opportunity to share their stories with all of Canada through a national television network dedicated to Aboriginal programming.  Through documentaries, news magazines, dramas, entertainment specials, children’s series, cooking shows and education programs, APTN offers all Canadians a window into the remarkably diverse worlds of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and throughout the world.

Nearly 50% of APTN’s programming is exclusive and can’t be seen on any other network. Further, APTN contributes to language preservation. The main Aboriginal languages the network broadcasts in are Inuktitut, Cree, Ojibway, Innu, Oji-Cree, Mohawk and Maliseet.

APTN programming is driven by our mission statement: Sharing our Peoples’ journey, celebrating our cultures, inspiring our children and honouring the wisdom of our Elders. We strive to air programming that is representative of all of our peoples and their life experiences. Through APTN, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples have the opportunity to share their stories with all Canadians on a national television network dedicated to Aboriginal programming.

Beyond broadcasting, APTN opens its doors to the public and engages in strong community initiatives. Ongoing tours with schools, youth organizations as well as other interest groups occur throughout the year with visitors coming from across Canada and beyond.  As the first and only national Aboriginal broadcaster in the world, many see APTN as their primary source, in acquiring knowledge and information about Aboriginal Peoples, their culture and their history. APTN is not just a TV station. It’s more. For some it’s an educational resource. APTN collaborates with many high schools and post-secondary institutions across the country to provide learning and internship opportunities. For others it’s an opportunity to share their knowledge, to be heard, to participate in special events such as town halls, panel discussions and live broadcasts. For Aboriginal producers, as well as Aboriginal actors, writers, directors, musicians, cinematographers, designers and editors, it’s a vehicle that helps nurture, develop and showcase their art, their work. For Aboriginal communities, organizations and festivals, and countless cultural events, it’s a support vehicle that allows them to showcase the successes of Aboriginal youth and Elders, through music, art, presentation and more. Each year, APTN produces the largest celebration of National Aboriginal Day in Canada – Aboriginal Day Live & Celebration. Winnipeg plays host to the world-class signature event that showcases Aboriginal music and arts. Since 2008, a Canadian community hosts a twin stage.  It’s an event that brings together people and communities in a spirit of sharing and celebration, enriching all of our lives, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal.