With Newfoundland and Labrador providing the ultimate cinematic backdrop and an international reputation for production excellence, the province’s film industry is poised for long-term success. The Provincial and Federal Governments are investing to help industry grow, compete and reach new markets – at home and abroad.

Today the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, announced $499,000 from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology’s Regional Development Fund for the Newfoundland Independent Filmmakers Cooperative Limited (NIFCO). The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, federal Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, along with Joanne Thompson, Member of Parliament for St. John’s East, announced two investments totalling just over $1.5 million for NIFCO and PictureNL (formerly known as the Newfoundland and Labrador Film Development Corporation).

These investments will help NIFCO upgrade production facilities and equipment to meet current industry standards and remain competitive in the digital innovation space. With these improvements, NIFCO will be able to better support filmmakers with enhanced media storage, picture, sound, and professional development.

Today’s announcement demonstrates both the Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s commitment to strengthen the local film and television industry, opening the door to direct and indirect economic benefits across all sectors.

Quotes
“NIFCO plays a crucial role in the growth, development and success of the provincial film industry, and we are proud to support them as they work to broaden the scope of projects they can apply for and execute. This funding will also enable the organization to offer up-to-date and cutting edge post-production services to international companies searching for co-producers. With approximately 1,400 full-time jobs currently in the film and television industry in this province, there are still significant growth and career opportunities available right here at home.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

“The Government of Canada is steadfast in its efforts to ensure this region remains a Canadian gem in the film industry. Key investments like the ones announced today not only help to bring our remarkable stories and diverse voices to the world – they build cultural and economic resilience right here at home.”
Honourable Gudie Hutchings,
Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“Thanks to today’s announcement, the Government of Canada is furthering its commitment to an industry that has become an integral part of the economy. We have many talented people here in Newfoundland and Labrador, and continued support for these organizations will enhance their ability to grow and prosper even more.”
Joanne Thompson
Member of Parliament, St. John’s East

“ACOA’s contribution to NIFCO’s technology upgrades is critical because it enables us to keep established producers competitive, continually nurture the next generation and maintain Newfoundland and Labrador production quality at the top of international buyers’ demands. We are grateful for ACOA‘s continued support of the Newfoundland Independent Filmmakers Co-op and the industry here.”
Jennice Ripley
Executive Director, NIFCO

“ACOA’s contributions to business development activities in the film and television industry are crucial to building capacity in our region and increasing the export marketing potential for our producers and their projects. On behalf of PictureNL, I would like to thank ACOA for their continued support of Atlantic Canada’s film and television industry.”
Laura Churchill
CEO & Film Commissioner, PictureNL

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Regional Development Fund

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