FRANCAIS

November 09, 2004

Winnipeg, MB – An ongoing initiative to increase the competitiveness of Manitoba’s music and motion picture industries will receive $2.4 million under the Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement. The Manitoba Music & Motion Picture Development Project (M3P) is a joint marketing, research and business development initiative by the Manitoba Audio Recording Industry Association (MARIA) and the Manitoba Motion Picture Industry Association (MMPIA).

The Honourable Greg Selinger, Manitoba Minister of Finance and the Honourable Maria Chaput, Senator, on behalf of the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport), announced the funding for phase two of the project today.

“Some of the results of the M3P partnership can be seen in the 19 Gemini nominations for Manitoba productions at Canada’s top television awards,” said Minister Selinger. “Many economic benefits such as cast, crew and musicians’ salaries, equipment and location rentals and ticket sales are hidden, yet very real in supporting our province’s economy.”

“To be competitive in a global marketplace, the Government of Canada is committed to investing in the talents of Canadians, the source of our creativity and economic strength,” said Senator Chaput. “The Manitoba Music Motion Picture Project is about strengthening our workforce, investing in research and marketing our knowledge and expertise to the world.”

M3P is a unique combination of marketing support and business development. Entering its second phase, it will assist Manitoba’s music and film industries increase market access and heighten the awareness of these industries in the international marketplace. The project also supports increased business skills and professional development to ensure long-term sustainability while fostering increased cooperation between the music and film industries.

“The M3P initiative is an investment in the future of the artists and industry professionals who make up the diverse and vibrant music and film scenes in Manitoba. Its success pays direct dividends not only to the artistic community it serves, but also to the community as a whole,” said Rick Fenton, President, MARIA board of directors. “This commitment ensures the health and growth of the music and film businesses both artistically and economically. The Government of Canada and the Province of Manitoba are to be congratulated in having the foresight to invest in the future of these industries.”

Phase one of M3P was a successful undertaking that resulted in numerous economic and professional benefits. Among these, film production revenues in Manitoba more than doubled from $51 million to an estimated $106 million in 2004. The total number of jobs also increased from 777 to 1,331 – an increase of 71 per cent.

“This is a tremendous initiative.  Phase one of M3P effectively supported business development and industry growth in Manitoba’s film and music community,” said Jamie Brown, MMPIA board chair. “Building on this success, phase two will further develop the professional skills that enhance the stability and international competitiveness of our film and music industry.  Sustainable growth for the indigenous film and music industries is supported by all four pillars of M3P:  Market Development, Industry Promotion, Professional & Corporate Development and Industry Research.”

Since 1987, the Manitoba Audio Recording Industry Association (MARIA) has promoted the work of Manitoba artists and has provided professional development services to help music industry workers succeed as cultural entrepreneurs. Through its programs and services, MARIA helps people in the music industry find their community and build sustainable careers.

Established in 1987, the Manitoba Motion Picture Industry Association (MMPIA) represents the interests of motion picture professionals in Manitoba.  Through its programs and initiatives, MMPIA creates opportunities for the production, promotion and appreciation of film and video in Manitoba.

In December 2003, the governments of Canada and Manitoba entered into a four-year $50 million Canada-Manitoba Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). The two strategic priorities of the agreement are “building our economy” and “sustainable communities.” Phase one of M3P also received funding under the previous partnership agreement.

Together, and in partnership with community stakeholders, Canada and Manitoba are working to strengthen and diversify Manitoba’s economy, build on existing economic strengths, enhance the skills of Manitoba’s workforce and promote regional development.

Federal funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 2004 budget.

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