Knowledge Network has received $300,000 from the government of British Columbia, Community Sport and Cultural Development Minister Ida Chong announced today.

The grant comes from the 2010 Sport and Arts Legacy, created to continue the celebration of excellence and community spirit so evident during the 2010 Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Knowledge Network will use the funding to commission a series of documentary shorts produced by B.C. independent filmmakers presenting stories about renowned artists and sports figures from British Columbia.

Production will begin this fall, with completion of the projects anticipated in spring 2013.

A commercial-free public broadcaster, Knowledge Network presents a unique mix of arts and culture programming that reflects British Columbia's multi-cultural, diverse society.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"Great athletes and excellent artists play a key role in the culture of our province. B.C.'s leaders in sport and the arts, whether from history or the present day, inspire us through their achievements."

"I'm confident that Knowledge Network will use this opportunity to tell the wonderful story of outstanding British Columbians whose success in arts and sport has earned admiration and respect."

Rudy Buttignol, president and CEO, Knowledge Network Corporation -

"These stories will offer insight into the experiences - distinct to our province - that connect and inspire people across British Columbia."

"Knowledge Network is committed to working with B.C.'s independent producers. They are talented storytellers, creating original programs that speak to what matters to British Columbians."

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has provided more than $2.6 billion in support for arts and culture in British Columbia, including the screen-based entertainment industry.
• Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested more than $1 billion to support sport throughout the province.

Learn More:

Check out the B.C. government's role in supporting sport, arts and culture through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development at: http://www.gov.bc.ca/cscd

Explore Knowledge Network at: http://www.knowledge.ca

Contact:

Gillian Rhodes
Communications Manager
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 356-6334