The Planet in Focus Film Festival kicked off on Wednesday, October 10 with a full line-up of environmentally conscious films and an industry series.
zeeBigBang attended The Funding Panel earlier this morning, which gave emerging and veteran filmmakers the opportunity to meet the funders directly, learn about their programs and hear tips on what makes a successful application.
The panel featured Marcia Douglas, Program Manager for Bell New Media Fund, Martin Harbury, Film & Television Consultant for Ontario Media Development Corporation and Melissa Amer, Deputy Director of the English Market for Canadian Media Fund.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when applying for funding:
- Do your research: All three panelists emphasized the importance of research when it comes to applying for funding. Martin Harbury suggests attending an information session prior to starting your application so that you can ask questions and get all the information you need in the early stages of applying.
- Complete your application: Most funding organizations have strict deadlines. According to Melissa Amer, it is very important that you submit your completed application by the deadline date. This means reading through the required fields and making sure your application has everything filled out and ready to go.
- Explain your project clearly: Make sure the funders understand the project you’re pitching to them. Marcia Douglas recommends having a third party look over your application prior to handing it in. This way, you can be sure your project is being properly interpreted.
zeeBigBang’s Takeaway: Take advantage of the information sessions offered by many of these funding organizations so that you have everything you need to hand in a complete and clear application.
Join the new world of arts & entertainment and do business online. Sign up now on zeeBigBang.com
