What the Project Is
ECW is Entertainment. ECW is Culture. ECW is Writing. Publishers Weekly recognizes ECW Press as one of the most diversified independent publishers in North America. For over three decades, ECW Press has been a powerhouse in the literary world, having published close to 1,000 books that are distributed throughout the English-speaking world and translated into dozens of languages. It is known not just for its commercial appeal, but also for its commitment to supporting a vibrant backlist that includes poetry, fiction, pop-culture and political analysis, sports books, biography, and travel guides. The name ECW originally stemmed from Essays on Canadian Writing (the journal of literary criticism started in 1974), but as the company evolved, so did the interpretation of those three lively letters. They have signified various ideas over time — from Essential Canadian Writing and Excellent Contemporary Writing to Extreme Cutting-Edge Writing — each resonating with Entertainment, Culture, and Writing. Seriously, ECW has always pursued excellent writing in every genre.
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts demonstrate the unique strengths of the project:
- Nearly 1,000 published books making waves in the literary scene
- Over 50 new titles scheduled for release in the coming year
- Diverse genres covering everything from poetry and fiction to pop-culture, political analysis, sports, biography, and travel guides
- Decades of experience blending commercial appeal with literary excellence
- Innovative marketing and promotion strategies that ensure each title gets the recognition it deserves
Culture and Creativity
The creative spirit of ECW Press is as refreshing as it is dynamic. It isn’t merely about publishing books — it is a cultural force that adapts and evolves with the times. The name itself has been reinvented over the years, reflecting the flexible and multifaceted nature of the enterprise. Whether seen as Extreme Cutting-Edge Writing or one of its other interpretations, each letter stands proudly for a different passion: Entertainment, Culture, and Writing. Every project exudes an excitement that draws the attention of readers and critics alike, creating a perfect blend of artistic exploration and commercial savvy… and that energy is palpable.
Story of the Location
The ECW office is nestled on land that has a rich and layered history. Located at 665 Gerrard Street East in Toronto, ON, the area sits on traditional territory belonging to many nations, including the Wendat; the Anishnaabeg; the Haudenosaunee; the Chippewa; Métis; and the Mississaugas of the Credit—the latter having completed negotiation of Treaty No. 13, known as the “Toronto Purchase,” a process that began in 1787, was negotiated in 1805, and re-negotiated in 2010. Once a sandy, oak savannah on a hill rising westward from Heward Creek — one of Toronto’s lost ravines — the land evolved in the 1880s as part of a growing community around St. Matthew’s Anglican and other churches. In the 1950s, immigrants fleeing the Vietnam War, alongside Chinese Canadians displaced by urban redevelopment, reshaped the neighbourhood, earning it the nickname “East Chinatown.” A local restaurant even featured in the filming of A Christmas Story. This diverse history forms part of the backdrop against which ECW Press continues to thrive.
Commitment to Excellence
At the core of ECW Press lies an unwavering pursuit of excellent writing. The project consistently highlights that it is the authors who give the publisher its reputation, and extraordinary care is taken to support every title with innovative marketing and promotion. With a heady mix of commercial and literary works, each publication aspires to reach a uniform standard: the best writing, the most exciting and controversial takes on current issues, groundbreaking design, and high production values. Every piece is a testament to the belief that insightful and exciting content will resonate with readers across diverse markets.
Project Impact
- SDG 4: Quality Education – fostering a love of learning through diverse literary works
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – promoting opportunities in independent publishing
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – driving innovation and quality in literary production
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – deepening cultural engagement and community heritage
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – supporting integrity and excellence in the arts
Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, ECW Press is set to continue its growth and dynamic evolution in the literary world. The journey is far from over — innovation, excellence, and a commitment to bridging cultures and creative ideas remain at the forefront. Every step, every new title, reinforces the legacy of ECW, carving a niche in both commercial and literary success. The blend of a rich historical location and a modern, innovative publishing approach creates a narrative that is not only intriguing but also inspiring… and it’s clear that the future holds even greater promise.
