The Independent Production Fund and its evaluators have reviewed the 195 proposals for web series funding which were submitted this year from across Canada. Over 40 industry professionals, consultants and advanced media students selected a short-list of twenty-seven (27) projects, including 16 English-language and 11 French-language web series. In addition, several web series previously funded by the IPF will be eligible to apply for second season financing. The selected short-listed projects are now invited to submit complete Production Applications by May 4, 2015. An international Jury will evaluate these proposals and the Board of Directors of the IPF will make final funding decisions in June.

Andra Sheffer, CEO of the IPF noted that the variety and strength of the proposals was very impressive, and our congratulations go to all of the 195 applicants who produced such high quality proof-of-concept videos and thoughtful proposals. The IPFs web series funding program is very competitive and the selection process is daunting.

List of short-listed projects:

The Independent Production Fund thanks all of the evaluators for undertaking this selection challenge and sharing their insights and viewing experiences.

The IPF invests approximately $1.5M in the production of 12 to 15 web series each year. These series represent all demographics and genres, including action, animation, thriller, comedy and science fiction. They use social media to share and promote to their audiences and also offer a variety of interactive activities for viewers. The web series previously funded can be accessed at www.ipf.ca/webseries.

The IPF has invested over $58 M in the production of television and web drama series in the past 24 years. It is incorporated as a charitable foundation with an endowment valued at $36 M. It uses the interest generated by endowment and return on its project investments for its annual operations and project funding. The Board of Directors is composed of representatives from the industry and undertakes all funding decisions.

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