OREANDA-NEWS. September 16, 2016. On the opening day of the 36th edition of the Atlantic Film Festival, Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax, is announcing two separate contributions to the Atlantic Film Festival Association totaling \\$563,300. Later this evening, MP Fillmore will join other guests to deliver remarks prior to the curtain rising for the Halifax premiere of the Canada – Ireland co-production, Maudie, which tells the story of one of Canada’s most renowned folk artists, Nova Scotian, Maud Lewis. MP Fillmore is making the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

A \\$500,000 non-repayable investment, through ACOA’s Business Development Program (BDP), will assist the Association over the next two years to increase the growth and reach of its annual Atlantic Film Festival. The Association plans to re-brand and raise the Festival’s profile by developing a digital platform and interactive presence through a new website and enhanced look to give it more of a “red carpet” feel. This is expected to bolster box office traffic by offering mobile friendly online ticket sales and increase economic spin-offs for the region as well as highlight the benefits of Atlantic Canada as a shooting location to international markets. 

A \\$63,300 non-repayable contribution, also funded through BDP, will support the planning, organization and delivery of the Festival’s international buyers program - Strategic Partners. This important business development platform brings together Atlantic Canadian producers with international investors, distributors, producers, broadcasters, and other industry representatives interested in partnering on feature film, TV and digital fiction. Part of the festival for 19 years, Strategic Partners will take place September 15-17, in Halifax. Additionally, the four Atlantic Provinces have contributed a total investment of \\$21,700 to this Strategic Partners initiative.

Quotes

“The Government of Canada is pleased to support large-scale events, such as the Atlantic Film Festival, that showcase the productions and talents of Canadians for the world to see. It shows that we have the local skills, resources, landscape and unique culture to compete in the global market.”      

-       The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“The Atlantic Film Festival is an event that shines a light on the accomplishments of Canadians in the film industry and connects our established and emerging talent with international producers and other leading professionals. The exposure and possibilities this event provides Atlantic Canadians will have a positive impact that will stay in the area long after the final credits roll.” 

-       Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax

“As an arts based not-for-profit charity organization, it is through funding from federal, provincial and municipal governments as well as the private sector that the Atlantic Film Festival continues to be the champion of our region’s screen-based storytelling. Organizations such as the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) are an integral part of allowing us to support this important art form in Atlantic Canada both for audiences here and around the globe. The Atlantic Film Festival is Atlantic Canada's curator of epic and unforgettable stories that engage, entertain and invigorate all Atlantic Canadians."

-       Wayne Carter, Executive Director of the Atlantic Film Festival