By Muriel Eason
Special to The SUN
In an effort to help rural movie theaters stay in business, Colorado announced in September 2013 the Rural Theater Digital Conversion Grant. The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), Colorado Small Business Development Center Network, The Denver Film Society, Downtown Colorado, Inc., the Gates Foundation and Boettcher Foundation have teamed up to create grants ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 for theaters converting to the new digital equipment being required by the film industry.
“Local small town cinemas are a key amenity for local workforce retention and play a crucial role in enhancing culture and providing a strong sense of place,” said Donald Zuckerman, Colorado film commissioner. “In addition to showing newly released films, these venues often function as a meeting place and social center and are sometimes the only community facility within their county. Films, special events, educational screenings and fundraising events at the theaters foster activities for various community groups and enhance local learning opportunities. Moreover, the theaters are an affordable leisure option for families and the elderly, and serve as a safe, secure venue for young people.”
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