The Singapore Film Society (SFS) and the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) today announced the launch of a new Animated Short Film Initiative (ASFI) to encourage more locally produced animated short films.

The initiative encourages local animators to create high quality short films that can be showcased in festivals and markets around the world. Animation companies and independent animators are invited to submit their proposals for short film ideas, with funding up to $40,000 for films with a runtime of 16-30 minutes, and $15,000 for projects with a runtime of 3-15 minutes.

Submissions will be judged based on originality of concept, quality of story and designs, the applicants' track record and their ability and commitment to manage and deliver the project. There is no preference for animation style - 2D, 3D, Flash or claymation are all eligible. Successful applicants will be expected to complete their projects within a year of receiving funding.

Mr Kenneth Tan, Chairman of SFS, welcoming the new initiative, said: "We believe it will seed and catalyse both production and consumption activity levels."

Mr Seto Lok Yin, Assistant Chief Executive Officer (Industry), MDA added: "This initiative provides a good platform for local talents to jumpstart their career and it will benefit the animation industry as a whole as more of our talents get a chance to hone their skills. We are hopeful that ASFI will lay the foundation for creative talents to emerge and become future captains of the animation industry."

Interested applicants are welcome to submit their proposals by post. For further details, refer to the SFS web site (http://www.sfs.org.sg).