What Can the Export Assistance Program Fund?
The Export Assistance Program (EAP) offers crucial support for Canadian production companies aiming to distribute feature-length films internationally. This guide details what the program can fund, helping your organization plan effectively for international promotion.
Program Funding Overview
The EAP is designed to assist Canadian production companies in promoting their films across foreign markets. This financial support is pivotal in enhancing the visibility and reach of Canadian cinema on the global stage.
Funding Amounts & Rates
The program provides funding based on the minimum guarantee paid for the acquisition of distribution rights, which must be at least $3,000. While the specific funding amount can vary, it is structured to cover a significant portion of promotional activities.
Eligible Expenses
The EAP covers a range of expenses related to the distribution and promotion of films overseas. Eligible costs include:
Promotional Campaigns: Expenses related to advertising, marketing, and promotional events designed to boost the film's visibility in foreign markets.
Distribution Rights Acquisition: Costs associated with securing distribution rights for international release.
Market Research: Funding for research activities aimed at understanding target audiences and market trends.
Travel Expenses: Costs for travel related to film promotion, including attending film festivals and market events.
Public Relations: Fees for PR agencies and consultants to manage the film's image and communication strategies.
Ineligible Expenses
The program does not cover:
Production Costs: Any expenses directly related to the creation of the film.
Domestic Promotion: Costs incurred for promoting the film within Canada.
Overhead Expenses: General operational costs of the production company.
Expense Documentation Requirements
Applicants must provide comprehensive documentation for all claimed expenses, including:
Invoices and Receipts: Proof of payment for all claimed costs.
Contracts and Agreements: Documentation of distribution rights agreements and promotional contracts.
Reports: Detailed reports on promotional activities and outcomes.
Examples of Funded Projects
Past funded projects have included films that successfully expanded into multiple foreign markets, significantly increasing their audience reach and international revenue.
Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process
Funds are typically disbursed upon submission and approval of expense claims. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, meaning organizations must initially cover costs before claiming them back.
Stacking Rules
The EAP allows for the combination of funding with other government programs, provided that the total government assistance does not exceed a certain percentage of the project's total cost.
Real-World Budgeting Tips
Maximize Eligible Expenses: Focus on activities that align closely with the program's objectives.
Plan Documentation Early: Ensure all documentation is collected and organized in advance to streamline the claiming process.
Leverage Multiple Markets: Consider promoting the film in multiple territories to maximize visibility and potential funding.
Conclusion
Understanding what the Export Assistance Program can fund allows Canadian production companies to strategically plan their international promotional efforts. By focusing on eligible expenses, companies can enhance their films' global presence and achieve greater market success.
