BPIDP?
For those of you not in book publishing, BPIDP (pronounced bippy-dip, not kidding) announced some policy and program updates.
http://pch.gc.ca/progs/ac-ca/progs/padie-bpidp/reports/bulletin-newsletter_e.cfm
My personal favourite is #3.
Quote: 3. Enhanced funding for new technology initiatives
After a successful six year investment in bibliographic data improvements through the Supply Chain Initiative for Publishers, BPIDP will be reorienting its support for new technology initiatives in 2008-2009. In keeping with the findings of several recent industry studies that have identified the need for increased training and professional development in this area, BPIDP will provide funding to support publishers’ acquisition of the knowledge and skills necessary to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by new technologies.
Starting in 2008-2009, BPIDP will fund up to 75% of eligible expenses for technology-based business planning projects and internships for individual publishers. Technology-focused professional development projects for publisher associations will also be eligible for the same level of support. This assistance will not be a permanent measure but rather a limited initiative to help the industry build the foundation for the effective application of new technologies.
Now if only I knew of someone with knowledge of the publishing industry and experience with technology! (About my services page.)