The Global Television Network has established a new $6-million Promotion of Programming Fund, aimed at increasing audience awareness of Canadian television.

To be designed by the Canadian Television Fund and administered through its Licence Fee Program, the new money will be spread over five years and is open to primetime TV programs airing on any public or private conventional or specialty broadcaster.

"We've designed the POP Fund to be a true partnership between the CTF, producers and broadcasters of distinctly Canadian television programs," states Garry Toth, president and CEO of the CTF.

Productions will be selected based on the quality, innovation and projected impact of the applicant's promotional plan.

"We drew on the knowledge and expertise of veteran industry publicists when designing the POP Fund," states Louise Baillargeon, VP of the LFP. "In order to make a real impact, and given the costly nature of promotional and publicity activities, the POP Fund will target significant contributions to a handful of proposals each year."

The deadline for applications is July 31, with decisions being announced by the end of August. *

-www.canadiantelevisionfund.ca