BC Film + Media is pleased to announce the opening of the Features in Focus Development Program (formerly Development Program 'B') of the Television & Film Financing Program (TFFP). Features in Focus provides recoupable advances to both established and emerging British Columbia screenwriters to develop long form dramatic productions destined for theatrical release.

Up to a maximum of $15,000 is available for established British Columbia writers to complete a first draft screenplay; up to $10,000 for eligible (established or emerging) applicants to complete a rewrite of their screenplay; and up to $15,000 for eligible applicants (established or emerging) to complete a script polish and begin preliminary scheduling and marketing.

The Government of British Columbia recently allocated an additional $5 million towards the development, production and marketing of domestic feature film projects. "The response each year to this program has been overwhelming, and while we cannot fund everyone, with the new money, we will be able to enhance our support of feature film development in the province," added President and CEO, Rob Egan.

Features in Focus is a competitive program in which BC Film + Media will make a final determination of projects selected for support. Market support is not required. Guidelines and application forms for Features in Focus are available through the BC Film + Media office or website at www.bcfilm.bc.ca.

Applications for this program will be accepted starting Monday, June 4, 2001. The final deadline is Friday June 29, 2001 at 5:00 pm.

BC Film + Media is a privately-administered, non-profit society established in 1987 by the provincial government with a mandate to expand and diversify the cultural industries of film and video in British Columbia. The Society gratefully acknowledges the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Small Business, Tourism and Culture.