Interactive Digital Media Fund — Production
At a glance
- From 25,000$ to 300,000$
- 50% of project cost
- Open Date : June 19, 2023
- Closing date : August 26, 2024
- All industries
- Government of Ontario
- Ontario Creates
Overview
Eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria for the Ontario Creates Interactive Digital Media (IDM) Fund Production and Concept Definition programs include the following: 1. Companies must be Ontario-based and have a permanent establishment in Ontario. 2. The project must be primarily developed in Ontario. 3. The applicant company must have at least 50% ownership/control by Ontario residents or Canadian-owned entities. 4. The project must have significant creative or financial participation from Ontario residents. 5. The project must be a new, original, interactive digital media content project. 6. Applicants must have a viable business plan and demonstrate the ability to complete the project successfully. 7. Companies must be incorporated for-profit enterprises, legally registered in Ontario, and in good standing with relevant government authorities. 8. Projects must have identified third-party financing or revenue sources. 9. The company must demonstrate the ability to fund its portion of project costs. 10. The project must follow all guidelines and requirements outlined in the Ontario Creates IDM Fund guidelines and application forms. Additional details and specific requirements can be found in the Ontario Creates Interactive Digital Media Fund Guidelines. It is recommended to thoroughly review the guidelines before preparing and submitting an application.
Who is eligible
- Interactive Content (Non-Linear) companies - Video Content (Linear) companies
Eligible expenses
Eligible expenses for this grant include: - Concept Definition expenses - Production expenses These include costs related to the creation, development, and production of interactive or video content projects that contribute to the Ontario economy.
Eligible projects & activities
- Interactive Content (Non-Linear) projects - Video Content (Linear) projects
Evaluation & selection criteria
- The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant include factors such as the originality and quality of the interactive digital media content projects, their positive contribution to the Ontario economy, and the readiness for full production. - Evaluation also considers the early-stage activities for Concept Definition projects and the creation of market-ready content for Production projects. - Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and demonstrate a clear plan for the development and completion of their projects. - The level of innovation, market potential, and feasibility of the proposed projects are also key criteria in the evaluation process.
How to apply
The steps to apply for the Ontario Creates Interactive Digital Media Fund (IDM) Production and Concept Definition grant are as follows: 1. Review the program guidelines thoroughly to understand eligibility criteria, funding details, and application requirements. 2. Ensure your company's corporate information is registered with the Ontario Creates Online Application Portal (OAP). 3. Access the application form on the OAP by clicking on "Start new application" in your dashboard. 4. Fill in all relevant tabs in the budget template specific to your project type (Concept Definition or Production). 5. Submit your application through the Online Application Portal before the deadline. 6. Attend an Ontario Creates IDM Fund Information Session for additional insights and guidance, if desired. If you require further assistance, contact the Program Coordinator at idmfund@ontariocreates.ca.
Additional information
- All applications must be submitted via the Ontario Creates Online Application Portal (OAP). Applications submitted by any other method will not be accepted. - Applicants are strongly encouraged to start the application process well in advance of the deadline in case technical support is required. - Prior to starting an application, your company’s corporate information must be registered with the OAP. If you do not have a user account on OAP, please go to https://apply.ontariocreates.ca and click on “Register”. - If you encounter problems setting up your company’s corporate information, you can email applyhelp@ontariocreates.ca for assistance. - Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an Ontario Creates IDM Fund Information Session. Attendees need to complete the online registration form by 5:00 pm on the day prior to the Information Session. - Recording of an Information Session is not a substitute for reading the guidelines. Please read the guidelines. - Enquiries regarding the Online Application Portal (OAP) should be directed to applyhelp@ontariocreates.ca. - To receive notification of upcoming deadlines and program updates, applicants can register on the Online Application Portal. - For further information or specific inquiries, applicants can contact the Program Coordinator, Industry Initiatives at idmfund@ontariocreates.ca.
Grant Summary:
The IDM Fund: Production and Concept Definition offered by Ontario Creates provides funding for interactive digital media content projects in Ontario. It supports both Concept Definition and Production stages, offering up to 50% of eligible expenses with specific maximum and minimum requests for each stage.
Grant Details:
The Ontario Creates IDM Fund: Production and Concept Definition program is designed to support creators in the interactive digital media industry by offering financial assistance in the development of innovative projects. The funding is divided into two streams: Interactive Content (Non-Linear) and Video Content (Linear), covering a wide range of digital media formats such as video games, web series, mobile content, and XR experiences.
Applicants can apply for Concept Definition funding to aid in the early-stage development of their projects, with a maximum request of $50,000 and a minimum of $10,000. This phase helps companies prepare for full production by refining their ideas and strategies. The Production stream is geared towards creating market-ready interactive or video content, with a maximum request of $300,000 and a minimum of $25,000. The goal is to support the creation of engaging digital media projects that contribute to the growth of the Ontario economy.
Companies interested in applying are encouraged to review the Ontario Creates IDM Fund Guidelines for Interactive Content (Non-Linear) and Video Content (Linear) to ensure their projects align with the program's objectives. Eligible expenses can include production costs, talent fees, marketing expenses, and other project-related costs incurred in Ontario. The application process involves submitting all required documentation through the Ontario Creates Online Application Portal, where applicants can find the latest versions of guidelines and forms.
Additionally, Ontario Creates offers Information Sessions for prospective applicants to learn more about the grant requirements and application process. Participants can attend sessions specific to the type of content they are producing, whether interactive (Non-Linear) or video (Linear), providing valuable insights into the program's expectations. For further inquiries or technical assistance, companies can reach out to the Program Coordinator for Industry Initiatives or the Online Application Portal support team.
In conclusion, the IDM Fund: Production and Concept Definition program presents a valuable opportunity for interactive digital media creators to receive financial support and strategic guidance in developing their projects. By fostering innovation and creativity in the industry, Ontario Creates aims to strengthen the digital media landscape in Ontario and contribute to its economic growth.