Nova Scotia book publishers are getting the support they need to double their growth over the next five years as part of a $1.1 million investment announced today, Oct. 19, by Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage Tony Ince.
Through the Creative Industries Fund, the money will help 11 publishers to expand exports to other provinces or countries.
“We understand the economic and social benefits the creative industries bring to Nova Scotia,” said Mr. Ince. “This export-oriented fund will help our publishers expand their economic and cultural reach.”
Nova Scotia’s book publishers provide 42 full-time and 23 part-time jobs in addition to work for freelancers. They are a vital part of the provincial economy. The funding will help the publishers move into the academic publishing market, translate current children’s books into French and Spanish, and increase their new-titles list for sales worldwide.
“Nimbus is very proud to be part of Nova Scotia’s rich and diverse publishing industry,” says Nimbus general manager and co-owner Terrilee Bulger. “This industry has produced Giller and Governor General’s Award winners and contributes to the cultural fabric of this province. This investment assures Nova Scotians that their stories will continue to be told, and told to a worldwide audience.”
With a total value of $2 million, the Creative Industries Fund is available to businesses, not-for-profit organizations and social enterprises operating in creative industries such as music, book publishing, fine and production craft, visual and applied art, performing arts, and clothing design and textile enterprises. The fund’s goal is to increase creative industry exports thereby contributing to the province’s economy.
According to research from Statistics Canada, culture contributes $949 million to Nova Scotia’s economy and provides almost 14,000 jobs. This represents 2.7 per cent of the provincial gross domestic product and three per cent of all jobs in the province.
Information about the Creative Industries Fund and how to apply for it is available at novascotia.ca/programs/creative-industries-fund
Source: Release