Alberta film industry gets $14M boost

After years of government cuts, Alberta's film industry is getting a one-time shot of $14 million from the province.

Friday's boost to Alberta's Film Development Program, which provides funding for film and TV projects shot and produced in the province, brings the 2008-09 budget for the program to almost $34 million.

"This investment will allow us to meet our current commitments to the industry, while also ensuring we can continue to attract world-class projects," said Lindsay Blackett, minister of culture and community spirit, in a news release.

A new funding model for the program is being developed to find a long-term solution that ensures Alberta is competitive with industry incentives offered by other jurisdictions, said the province.

Film and television production increased by 10 per cent each year since 2003-04, said the province. In 2005-06, the industry generated about $165 million of economic activity in Alberta.

After years of cuts to the arts, the Alberta government is trying to shore up its support for the province's arts community.

Sept. 6 marks the first-ever Alberta Arts Day, where people across the province are being encouraged to take part in the showcase of Alberta artists, performers and writers.