Creative BC and CMPA-BC Launch New IP Optioning Pilot Program for Production Companies based in British Columbia

Vancouver, December 14, 2022 – Today, Creative BC and the Canadian Media Producers Association, BC Producers Branch (CMPA-BC) are proud to open a new pilot initiative that will deliver $200K in grants of up to $25K for the optioning of pre-existing intellectual property (IP) by B.C.-based production companies. The IP BC Pilot Program (the Pilot) is predevelopment support that will enable B.C. producers to adapt existing creative and cultural properties into film and television content, including fiction, documentary and animated series, as well as feature films for theatrical distribution, and one-off programs for television and streamer platform networks.

The Pilot is a partnership between Creative BC and the CMPA-BC with the cost of IP acquisition as the only eligible program expense. Examples of pre-existing creative and cultural IP properties include but are not limited to novels, creative non-fiction books, comics, podcasts, songs, magazine articles, video games and stage plays.

The Pilot seeks to improve the competitive position of B.C.-based production companies aiming to develop, produce, and sell Canadian-owned screen-based content in domestic and international markets. Newly negotiated optioning contracts dated between September 1, 2022 and the deadline of January 31, 2023, will qualify for this program, which does not require a market trigger, such as a broadcaster’s support, to apply. Successful recipients will receive advances of up to 80% of the IP’s optioning cost with an additional 10% if the IP originates in B.C., in which case up to 90% of the cost will be recoverable through the Pilot.

An advisory panel will be established by Creative BC and CMPA-BC to evaluate applicants for eligibility and to determine successful projects based on viability, commitment from the IP holder and additional criteria as outlined in the program guidelines now available online.

Applicants must adhere to the Indigenous Screen Office’s Protocols for working with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, cultures, concepts, and stories. They are encouraged to apply guidance in the Black Screen Office’s Being Seen study that provides directives for commissioning, creating, and assessing authentic content, and to take the Climate and Sustainable Production Training Course offered through Reel Green™.

Learn more about the IP BC Pilot Program, eligibility criteria, and timelines online at https://creativebc.com/services/funding-programs/domestic-motion-picture-programs/reel-focus-bc/ip-bc-pilot-program/

Media Contact:
Lisa Escudero, Creative BC
media@creativebc.com
604-730-2235

Quotes:

Prem Gill, CEO, Creative BC
“The IP BC Pilot Program, a partnership of Creative BC and the CMPA-BC, represents a new opportunity for B.C. production companies to access support that will help secure original Intellectual Property for adaptation to the screen. By working in integrity with the Indigenous Screen Office’s Protocols and the Black Screen Office’s Being Seen study, B.C. producers will be well-positioned to ensure an authentic approach to content creation and respectful storytelling practices.”

Tracey Friesen, Managing VP, Canadian Media Producers Association, BC Producer Branch.
“CMPA-BC is proud to partner on this pilot IP optioning program, and we can’t wait to see what B.C. productions will be sparked. Starting development with a compelling creative work already in hand gives B.C. film and television producers a competitive edge, placing them much closer to a greenlight.”

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About Creative BC
Creative BC is an independent society created and supported by the provincial government to sustain and help grow British Columbia’s creative industries: motion picture, interactive and digital media, music and sound recording, and magazine and book publishing. The organization delivers a wide range of programs and services with a mandate to expand B.C.’s creative economy. These activities include administration of the provincial government’s motion picture tax credit programs, delivery of program funding and export marketing support for the sector, and provincial film commission services. Combined, these activities serve to attract inward investment and market B.C. as a partner and destination of choice for domestic and international content creation. The society acts as an industry catalyst and ambassador to help B.C.’s creative sector reach its economic, social, environmental, and creative potential both at home and globally. Website: www.creativebc.com

About the Canadian Media Producers Association, BC Producer Branch
The BC Producers Branch of the CMPA works on behalf of more than 100 British Columbia companies engaged in the production and distribution of television, feature film, and digital media content. It promotes the interests of its members with all levels of government; negotiates and manages labour agreements with the provinces guilds and unions; and undertakes a variety of member, industry and export development initiatives to build the capacity of B.C. based production companies.  CMPA-BC is a provincial branch of the Canadian Media Producers Association. Website: cmpa.ca/cmpa-bc