URGENT UPDATE: The Ministry of Culture and Media in Montenegro has just announced the formation of a new Working Group aimed at revitalizing the country’s creative industries. This initiative, developed in partnership with the British Council, will bring together professionals from various cultural sectors to map and support the growth of this vital economic area.
During the first meeting held at the Film Center of Montenegro, key objectives were outlined for the Working Group. Their primary task will be to establish a comprehensive framework for defining and legislating creative industries within Montenegro. The group will focus on identifying essential categories that contribute to the creative economy and will work to integrate these definitions into legal structures.
Marko Gošović, Director of the Directorate for the Development of Creative Industries, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This is a crucial step towards enhancing the legal and financial support for our creative sector.” He also reminded stakeholders that a public competition for co-financing projects in creative industries is currently open, with a total funding of €400,000 available. The application deadline is set for March 2, 2024.
In the past six years, a remarkable 171 projects have been funded, amounting to over €1 million in support. Gošović noted that the growing interest in these competitions reflects their relevance and the sector’s recognition of their importance.
The collaboration between the Ministry and the British Council was formalized with a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June 2024, which will guide their partnership in the arts and creative economy through 2024-2026. This framework aims to enhance cultural policies, research, and capacity building for creative professionals across Montenegro.
The establishment of this Working Group is seen as a pivotal moment for Montenegro as it seeks to strengthen its creative sectors amid increasing global competition. As the group moves forward, stakeholders and aspiring creatives are urged to stay engaged and consider applying for the upcoming funding opportunities to help fuel innovation and growth within this dynamic field.
This initiative not only highlights the importance of creative industries in driving economic development but also underscores the commitment of both the Ministry of Culture and Media and the British Council to fostering a vibrant cultural landscape in Montenegro. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops and the impact of this initiative unfolds.
