IPF and CMF Expand Partnership with Short Form Series Production Funding

• Expanded partnership injects $1M into IPF production program
• Maximum request for production funding increased to $250,000

Toronto, September 17, 2024 – The Independent Production Fund (IPF) and the Canada Media Fund (CMF) are excited to announce the expansion of their financial partnership to now include funding for short form series productions. This new collaboration is a natural extension of their existing partnership to develop short form series and will now provide additional funding to support the production phase of IPF funded projects.

Starting with the IPF Short Form Series Production deadline in October 2024, the CMF will contribute an additional $1 million annually to the IPF, bringing the total program envelope to nearly $3 million.

With this announcement, the IPF is excited to reveal that the maximum funding request allowed per project will increase to $250,000, up from $200,000. The program’s increased funding will also allow the IPF to support a greater number of projects each year, providing more creators with more support to bring their creative visions to life.

“The IPF staff and board are incredibly proud to expand our partnership with the CMF to further support the amazing creative teams we see come through our programs every year,” said Jon Taylor, CEO of the Independent Production Fund. “The importance of the short form series format for emerging and transitional producers cannot be overstated. Providing more support for IPF funded teams to get to production is crucial for both the future of the project and the potential career path of the teams.”

“We are delighted to deepen our partnership with the IPF and bolster funding for short-form series as they move from the writer’s room into production,” said Valerie Creighton, CMF President and CEO. “I know strengthening this program and partnership will give more Canadian creators the boost they need to bring their stories to screens today and long into the future.”

The program aims to support outstanding, story-driven content by providing funding that enhances the production of well-developed concepts. It encourages the growth of emerging talent and helps establish the quality and reputation of projects that progress through the program.

The application portal is now open for this year’s 33 recipient teams of the IPF Short Form Series Development Program.