The B.C. government announced Saturday it would add $1 million in funding to a society it created to promote the province’s struggling film, music and publishing sectors.
The additional funding brings the government’s contribution to Creative BC to $2 million.
The government announced it would create the organization in early February in response to criticism that it had not included the film industry in its BC Jobs Plan. A Business in Vancouver story revealing the omission sparked the #SaveBCFilm campaign, which garnered attention in the mainstream press and on social media.
Many in the industry agree that more attractive tax incentives offered by other provinces, especially Ontario, are to blame for the B.C. industry’s malaise.
The creation of Creative BC was part of a $6.25 million package that also included funding various education initiatives and supporting an expansion of Emily Carr University of Art + Design.
Brian Hamilton, chair of the BC Producers’ Branch of the Canadian Media Production Association, supports the society.
“Increasingly, B.C. creative content competes with the best of the international marketplace,” said Hamilton. “This much needed additional support for Creative BC will enhance the ability of B.C. companies to build global audiences.”
