B.C.’s film industry will be able to ramp up its marketing efforts, and Capilano University will be able to equip a new film and animation centre as the result of a $1,479,000 cash infusion from the federal government announced yesterday.
The federal government is providing $969,000 to Capilano University to equip its new Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film and Animation with stereoscopic 3-D equipment, including cameras, monitors, two S3D camera rigs and other supporting technology.
The government is also providing $510,000 to the Motion Picture Production Industry Association of BC (MPPIA) to support the organization in delivering a three-year strategy to market and attract investment into B.C.’s film, TV, an digital production industry. The MPPIA will use the funds to develop marketing materials, workshops and an information-sharing database, plus undertake investment missions to the United States, Europe and Asia.
“B.C.’s film industry generates thousands of jobs and is a strong economic force in this province,” Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification Lynne Yelich said yesterday, announcing the new funds.
“The purchase of equipment for Capilano University’s Bosa Centre will help film students and industry professionals in B.C. ensure that their skill set remains current in this competitive market,” she said. “And thanks to our investment in the MPPIA, these very students will be able to transition into a stronger and more productive film industry.”
The MPPIA was not immediately available for comment.