Music, community, and philanthropy took centre stage on April 16 as Smith + Andersen celebrated the tenth edition of its EcoJam charity rock concert, at Toronto’s Phoenix Concert Theatre. The annual gathering unites Canada’s architecture, engineering, design, and construction communities in support of environmental sustainability, while providing a stage for industry professionals to share their musical talents!

EcoJam began as a way to gather people in the industry together for a night of music and fun in a more informal setting. “We are always thrilled to find out how many people in the engineering, architectural, and construction industries are so talented and musically inclined,” says Lowenna Barungi, Senior Marketing Communications Coordinator at Smith + Andersen, who also performed at this year’s event. “Many of the participants belong to bands that tour and perform professionally, so it’s such a special experience.”

The event supports Forests Canada, and its work planting trees to improve forestation across the country. “It’s no secret that global warming and so many other factors are changing our world and that intervention is needed,” says Barungi.

“Smith + Andersen, with the help of the EcoJam event, has raised over $330,000 and planted 75,000 trees since the inception of the event.”

In 2011, Smith + Andersen launched Footprint, the dedicated sustainability consulting arm, operating as an independent, specialized practice made up of highly skilled engineers, planners, architects, designers, and sustainability professionals across Canada. “It’s important for us to partner with organizations that are working to help make the environment a better place for all of these structures to exist, and with Footprint part of our brand, we found Forests Canada to be a natural fit for us,” says Barungi.

This year’s show included 15 bands who performed throughout the night, choosing some of their favourite hits, from rock classics to pop with a rock twist. Food, drinks, and an opportunity to connect with friends in the industry creates a fun, unique, and much-anticipated event each year.

EcoJam has continued to build momentum in recent years, with ticket sales and attendance reaching new heights. Reflecting the event’s growing popularity and impact, Smith + Andersen will expand the concert series this fall with the launch of EcoJam Vancouver in November 2026.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing EcoJam to the West Coast,” says Brian Brett, Director of Marketing and Communications at Smith + Andersen. “Planning is already underway, and we’re excited to build on the success of the Toronto event while creating a unique experience for the Vancouver community. We look forward to expanding EcoJam’s reach and continuing to celebrate sustainability, philanthropy, and musical talent within our industry.”

To learn more about the upcoming event, find out about sponsorship opportunities, and for ticket information, please visit www.ecojamvancouver.com.