Canwest supports local filmmaking in Canada with $4m

Canwest is donating $4 million to create two new funds to support Canadian documentary filmmaking, to be administered by Toronto's Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival over the next seven years.

The $3-million Canwest-Hot Docs Completion Fund will distribute grants of up to $100,000 to producers who have secured a broadcast deal.

The $1-million Canwest-Hot Docs Development Fund will provide no-interest loans of up to $15,000 to help producers get projects developed, researched, written and/or packaged and ready for market.

"Hot Docs is delighted to be able to expand our support of Canadian documentary makers in this very tangible and significant way," said Hot Docs executive director Chris McDonald in a statement.

"Canwest should be commended for its vision, leadership and commitment in establishing these Funds, which will have an overwhelmingly positive impact on the Canadian doc industry."

Detailed guidelines for the Canwest-Hot Docs Funds will be available June 1. Application deadlines are set for July 15 and Oct. 15. See hotdocs.ca for more information.

© The Vancouver Sun 2008