TikTok returns to Junos as sponsor after reversal of federal shutdown order

bbno$ poses for photos after winning the TikTok Juno Fan Choice award during the Juno Awards in Vancouver, B.C., Sunday, March 30, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

TikTok is hitting play again on Canadian arts sponsorships, coming back to the Juno Awards after a federal shutdown order forced it to press pause last year.

The tech company says it will serve as a Platinum Partner at this weekend’s Junos, marking its first return to supporting Canadian cultural programs.

Earlier this month, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said TikTok was allowed to continue its operations in Canada, reversing a 2024 order for the company to close its offices in Canada due to national security concerns.

Due to the looming shutdown, TikTok pulled out as a sponsor of several Canadian arts institutions, including the Juno Awards, the Toronto International Film Festival and MusiCounts.

Joly said the government’s turnaround, made after completing a national security review, hinges on key conditions, including for TikTok to introduce stronger protections for minors and the personal information of all Canadians.

Hosted by comedian Mae Martin, the 55th annual Junos take place in Hamilton this weekend, culminating with the main broadcast on Sunday.

TikTok says as part of its renewed support for homegrown artists, it will give select Canadian creators a “curated behind-the-scenes experience” at the Junos, including backstage tours, access to artist rehearsals and invitations to walk the red carpet.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 24, 2026.

Alex Nino Gheciu, The Canadian Press