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Alberta Project Script Development Grant

Alberta producers can apply for funding to support the development of their scripts and/or projects.

Important

Changes to Project Script intake dates

Application intake windows

  • February 1 to March 1
  • August 1 to September 1

    If the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend, it will be extended to the next working day at 11:59 pm.

Overview

The Project Script Development Grant provides Alberta writers, directors and producers with funding to help cover expenses related to the development of professional quality, commercial-ready projects and scripts that are at least 30 minutes in broadcast length.

Applications must involve participation of a writer and producer. The producer must be an Alberta resident.

This grant, under the Alberta Media Fund, supports the growth, sustainability, competitiveness and business attraction of Alberta’s screen-based production industry.

Funding

Applicants may apply for up to $55,000 per project (or a total of $70,000 per parent company with multiple projects) per fiscal year at the following stages of production:

Pre-developmentFirst draftFinal draft
$15,000$25,000$15,000

Eligible organizations

To be eligible to apply, your organization must be:

  • incorporated in Alberta
  • in good standing with the Corporate Registry
  • in good standing with the Alberta Media Fund

Eligible projects

Eligible projects must be:

  • new productions
  • at least 30 broadcast minutes in length

Ineligible projects

Projects that are not eligible for funding include:

  • news, current events or public affairs programming
  • talk shows
  • production in respect to a game or contest
  • sports event or activity
  • productions that solicits funds
  • reality TV
  • pornography or adult entertainment
  • advertising
  • productions for industrial, corporate or institutional purposes
  • console or online video games
  • software programming platforms
  • video distribution platforms or aggregators

Eligible expenses

Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:

  • option fees for literary material
  • writer and producer fees
  • series proposals
  • research or travel expenses
  • script consulting and editing fees
  • corporate overhead and legal fees
  • screen-play workshopping
  • demo reel and pitching material

Ineligible expenses

Capital items are not considered eligible.

Expenses incurred prior to application submissions are not considered eligible.

How to apply

Step 1: Review the guidelines

Review the current Project Script Development Grant Guidelines to ensure you understand the requirements.

Step 2: Create an online profile

New applicants must request access to set up an online profile prior to filling out an application. To set up a profile complete the Front Office Registration form, download and email it to [email protected].

Your login credentials will be emailed to you.

Step 3: Complete the application

Login to the Online Grant Application System to begin your application.

Refer to the GATE Application Tips and Guide for online Project Script Development Application Submission for assistance.

Step 4: Gather the required documents

Refer to the application requirements listed in the guidelines. The items listed must be submitted with your application or it will be considered incomplete.

Step 5: Submit your application

Your application and all supporting documents must be received through the Online Grant Application System.

Applications must be received by 11:59 pm on the day of the deadline. If the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend, it will be extended to the next working day at 11:59 pm.

Faxed, mailed, late or incomplete applications are not accepted.

After you apply

Your application will be assessed and scored using the Panel Assessment Form. Applicants will be notified in writing of the result of their application.

Reporting

Recipients are required to submit a report that demonstrates funds were spent as described in their application. Funds are to be returned if reporting requirements are not met.

The report is due 60 days after completion of the project, and must include:

  • a complete and accurate financial report
  • a copy of the work produced as proposed in the project plan
  • a summary of the approved phase(s) (1-2 pages)

Contact

Connect with the Project Script Development Grant program:

Phone: 780-422-8584
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]

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