Eurimages is to re-launch a distribution fund that will benefit seven countries without access to the EU’s MEDIA Programme.

Members including Russia, Albania, Georgia and Turkey will be granted access to the new programme, which will be split into two strands.

The first will support marketing and advertising costs up to $13,500 (€10,000) for European films, backing ”measures for fostering awareness of European cinema. It is aimed at innovative projects that attempt to reinforce the image of European cinema and boost its audience.

The second strand targets digital initiatives such as VOD projects and internet information sites devoted to European cinema or festivals.

Both forms of financial support will be in the form of non-repayable grants.

At the end of 2011, Eurimages’ executive director Roberto Olla was forced to freeze the distribution support programme following cases of fraud where the ruling of 50% own investment had not been honoured by some distributors.

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