BIPOC Community Post -- GRANTS

GRANTS:

The saying "There's never been a better time to make your own movie" is reductive. Yes, technology has made it easier to film something, but that means any old yahoo can selfie themselves into stardom. So what do you do when the industry is asking you to do it all on your own?

My first thought is: So, prove them right. This is hard work and it's not for everyone. If you have a story to tell and need money to tell it: DO THE WORK.

There are lots of people behind the scenes who are trying to talk the Arts Councils into using human-friendly language (portals and mission statements and intended outcomes, OH MY!) as well as understanding that narrative film doesn't mean commercial or that funding the same groups over and over again doesn't advocate for an innovative industry.

However, it is what it is. There is a time and a place for venting. But then you have to get back to work:
- Can't understand the application? Call them.
- Need to find people to apply with? Post about it on Social Media - Ink Canada or the BIPOC page.
- Want a fresh set of eyes? Post about it!
- Is there a language barrier? Call them.

The email addresses and phone numbers are on the website for a reason, call them and gently ask for guidance. Get on their mailing lists and attend the sessions they set up. They are going to give you money and so you gotta werk for it. Spell check for goodness sake. Use language that YOU want, don't try and mimic their poncy thesaurus words. Remember that you're in the business of sharing stories and if you can't tell it now, why should they give you money?

I'm not saying it's easy - I'm just saying it's possible.