Catalyst offers creative opportunities

A creative economic opportunity was considered at the August meeting of the Cook County/Grand Marais Economic Development Authority. Riki McManus of the Upper Minnesota Film Board was at that meeting, introducing Catalyst, a nonprofit formed by television executives, agents and independent producers, now based in Duluth.

Catalyst works with independent television production companies throughout the United States, helping them find locations and technical support for productions that ultimately end up on television hosts such as Hulu, Netflix and others.

Catalyst has opened its doors in Duluth and is in the process of developing a production guide to assist companies that are considering coming to the North Shore to create episodic productions. The guide will include contact information for everything from lodging and restaurants to theaters, light technicians, set construction and more.

Coming up on October 9-13 in Duluth is the Catalyst Content Festival, an annual event that highlights the work of independent creators. It is designed to help make connections between independent television creatives, agents and executives. In addition, it is an opportunity for fans and enthusiasts to learn more and to support promising new work.

A number of economic development authorities and local government entities, such as Visit Duluth, Minnesota Film TV Board, the city of Duluth, St. Louis County, and the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, have greeted the Catalyst Content Festival warmly.

IRRRB Commissioner Mark Phillips explained his agency’s support. “Northeastern Minnesota has a rich history of investing in creative industries, which has a direct and positive impact on our local economies. The need of such investments is especially true for our Iron Range communities that face unique challenges. Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation is pleased to support Catalyst Stories as a funding partner and looks forward to the economic development it will foster on the Iron Range,” Phillips said.

After hearing an enthusiastic pitch from Riki McManus, the Cook County/Grand Marais EDA agreed to contribute $2,500 of its marketing budget toward this festival.

WTIP’s Rhonda Silence reached out to Phillip Gilpin, Jr. of Catalyst Content to learn more about Catalyst, about the festival and about its possible economic impact to our community. 

Anyone interested in learning more is encouraged to visit the Catalyst website.