Independent labels and trade groups from North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific gather in Toronto on November 9–11 for WINCON 2026, the yearly global meeting of the Worldwide Independent Network. Organizers released the speaker list and session plan this week, and the gathering doubles as WIN's 20th-anniversary celebration.

Why you should go

  • It pairs with a Canadian conference. WINCON runs alongside CIMA's Make It Music and Label Summit, so one trip covers both programs and puts visiting delegates in the same rooms as Canada's independent sector.
  • The topics are concrete. Sessions cover streaming fraud, the rising volume of generative AI content, and how labels can draw neighboring rights income through collective management organizations.
  • The speakers span the industry. Label executives from Sub Pop, Secret City Records and Aporia Records share billing with association leaders from IMPALA, A2IM, AIM and VUT, plus Merlin and Panorama representatives.
  • There is room to meet people. A dedicated WIN 20th Anniversary Mixer is scheduled during the three days.
  • It suits first-timers and veterans. A practical session on Merlin membership is aimed at trade associations new to the licensing partner.

Where the sessions take place

On November 9, WINCON delegates join Label Summit attendees at Toronto's Society Clubhouse. Sessions on November 10 and 11 move to The Great Hall as part of the broader Make It Music schedule. Seven sessions run across the three days.

What will the panels discuss?

According to the announced program, the agenda centers on industry consolidation, how listeners find new music, streaming fraud and AI-generated releases. Other sessions look at ways to access revenue from neighboring rights, how to use Merlin services and how trade groups are changing to meet new market demands.

What to know before you go

WINCON is arranged by WIN with CIMA. CanExport, a Canadian federal program that helps smaller firms enter foreign markets, backs the event, as does licensing partner Merlin, with EU co-funding through IMPALA's network programme. Organizers have not published ticket prices or registration deadlines, so check with WIN or CIMA before booking travel.

FAQ

When and where is WINCON 2026?

It runs November 9–11, 2026, in Toronto, at Society Clubhouse on the first day and The Great Hall on the final two.

How much does it cost to attend?

No prices have been announced. Contact WIN or CIMA for registration and pricing details.