Big Bad Boo: Canada Spent $6M on Cartoons. Why Can’t We See the Details?

A Vancouver-based animation studio received more than $6 million in Canadian government funding earmarked for counter-terrorism initiatives—raising questions about transparency and oversight in federal spending.

Big Bad Boo Studios Inc., known for producing children’s cartoons, was among the top recipients of counter-terrorism grants between 2020 and 2023, despite its focus on animated storytelling for youth. The funding came through Global Affairs Canada under programs aimed at combating terrorist threats abroad.

Documents obtained by Coastal Front show millions flowed to the studio to support translated content, teacher materials, and radio adaptations. But redacted records leave it unclear how these activities align with national security goals.

An Access to Information request filed in June 2024 seeking basic records—emails, memos, and funding applications—has yet to yield answers. Officials have delayed, demanded narrower terms, and warned the process could take years.

Previously released documents, including a heavily censored project proposal, offer little insight into how Big Bad Boo’s work was vetted or approved.

The case highlights what critics say is a dysfunctional access-to-information regime. With no clear deadlines, digital tools, or enforcement mechanisms, the system remains opaque nearly a decade after the Liberal government pledged to be "open by default."

Next
Next

Carney’s Gov’t Touts ‘Significant’ Trade Missions—Whatever That Means