Invitation to Ethnocultural and Aboriginal Groups to Increase Internet Presence
OTTAWA, May 12, 2004 -- Canadian ethnocultural and aboriginal communities are invited to submit proposals to a pilot project to create new content for the Internet. This announcement was made today by the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage."This pilot project will be used to showcase contemporary cultural expressions created for the enjoyment and appreciation of all Canadians," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "The projects will focus on Internet content by and about culturally diverse communities, and Aboriginal peoples. Canadian cultural content on the Internet enables us to learn about and share perspectives on Canadian events, people and values."
The primary objective of the Gateway Fund, under which the project will be funded, is to increase access to and build audiences for Canadian digital cultural content. Guidelines for this targeted pilot project are now available. The maximum contribution to any single project funded through the Gateway Fund will be $50,000, and the content created must be made available online free of charge to all Canadians with Internet access. An Assessment Committee, made up of experts in new technologies and from the cultural sector, will evaluate all eligible project proposals.
The Canadian Culture Online Program, of which the Gateway Fund is a part, encourages a uniquely Canadian presence on the Internet. The program works with creators, cultural industries, communities and institutions to produce and make available to Canadians the digital cultural content that will help promote Canada's rich culture, history, arts and heritage. More information about the Canadian Culture Online Program can be found at the Department's Website: www.pch.gc.ca.
Funding for the Gateway Fund was provided for in the March 2004 Federal Budget.
Information:
Mylène Dupéré
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
[ Media Room ]
