In 2016, 12% of the applications submitted for web drama series production financing, were approved for funding. The primary criterion for acceptance by the Fund is the quality of the project. This is evaluated at each stage of the application process by juries of advanced level production students and a team of Canadian and international digital drama professionals who review all the materials submitted, meet for discussion and/or provide written ratings and comments.
Assessment metrics
Applications are scored and rated based on the following indicators of potential success:
- Creative material – compelling, well written, appropriate for the platform
- Audience engagement strategy – well developed and series specific marketing and promotion strategies for the target audience
- Proof-of-concept video content, traffic metrics and audience feedback
- Business and Financing – appropriate budget with confirmed financing; exploitation platforms and distribution plans
- Feasibility – production team’s track record and experience; sufficient development undertaken and production plans are realistic
- Overall judgement of potential success with audiences
Applications for second or subsequent seasons of series are also evaluated by a combination of metrics of success based on performance of the season(s) previously launched:
- Views
- Awards and critical acclaim
- Revenue generated and recoupment to the IPF
- Distribution platforms, licences
- Social media interactions, sharing, buzz, Likes, Followers
- Support and achievements of new talents
- Third party financing, sponsorship and endorsements
- Crowd-funding success