QUILLBLOG

At least the name is easier to pronounce … BPIDP becomes Canada Book Fund

The Department of Canadian Heritage announced today in Victoria that it will be renewing funding for the Canadian book industry to the tune of $39.5 million per year over the next five years.

The press release explains that the renewed investment will “help publishers and other book industry stakeholders to weather the current economic slowdown.” The Book Publishing Industry Development Program (BPIDP) will be renamed the Canada Book Fund, to reflect the shift from “a developing industry” to “a mature industry.”

Deirdra McCracken, director of communications for DCH told Q&Q that despite the rumours, there will be no changes to the eligibility criteria.

The funding will help ensure that publishers keep up with new digital technologies and adopt competitive business models. The new program will begin in 2010 and specific details have yet to be confirmed.

The Association of Canadian Publishers announced its support of the changes in a press release today, with specific reference to the emphasis on digital technologies.

Here is ACP President Rodger Touchie’s response to Heritage Minister James Moore’s announcement: “New technology offers enormous opportunity to Canadian publishers, but it comes with challenges as well. Renewed BPIDP funding will help Canadian publishers compete as new business models emerge, and will make it possible for us to pursue new markets and opportunities.”