Access Copyright announced $300,000 in new funding for research and professional development

Access Copyright Foundation has announced $300,000 in new funding in 2011, directed to the creation and dissemination of publishable Canadian works. It's the second year for the grants, which are being administered nationwide in partnership with the Saskatchewan Arts Board, but it holds out major opportunities in two new categories for Canadian magazine writers, in research and professional development.

The funding for the grants comes from a one-time $3 million from royalties accumulated by Access Copyright from copyright licenses it administers to cover the copying of Canadian books and magazines. This will be topped up annually by 1.5% of the annual copyright licensing revenues. A release says

Each year, the Access Copyright Foundation will award grants to Canada's writers, visual artists and publishers to support professional development opportunities, research projects and events. All three activities are vital to ensuring that Canadians will continue to create new cultural works that will be enjoyed by their fellow citizens, and those around the world.

"Canada's writers, visual artists and publishers are cornerstones of this nation's cultural identity. They work hard telling Canada's stories, both nationally and internationally. The Access Copyright Foundation is committed to supporting this essential work through these new grant programs," said ACF Founding Chairperson, Michael OReilly, a Thunder Bay-based writer and communications consultant.

Last year, 11 grants were made for events  (to organizations seeking to support creativity through deepening appreciation of Canadian culture). This year two new categories are being added: for professional development (e.g. attending events that will develop or refine their craft); and for research (to cover expenses for magazine articles, books or exhibitions). Eligible for the research category are creators (up to $7,500) and organizations and publishers (up to $10,000).Applications are available at the ACF website and submissions are due by February 1.