Karu-Karu, a 2D animation studio based in Adelaide, is set to leverage development funding of US$590,000 provided by Screen Australia (SA) for aspiring Australian creators. Wishes, the chosen kids concept, is among the 31 projects sharing this financial support.
Known for short films like My Little Sumo (2015) and its service work, Karu-Karu will use the funding from SA to cover development expenses, allowing flexibility for project needs like bibles, treatments, draft scripts, and sizzle reels in preparation for pitching.
The funding originates from the Generate Fund, designed to support lower-budget projects from emerging and experienced creators seeking creative exploration. SA offers funding opportunities through the Generate Fund or the Premium Fund for scripted TV and film projects, catering to both new talents and those with a successful production track record.
Ana María Méndez Salgado, director of Karu-Karu (Miniambra, My Little Sumo), leads the series, with Carlos Manrique Clavijo (My Little Sumo) as the producer. Colin South, an Australian kids TV veteran from Media World (Little J & Big Cuz, The Strange Chores), serves as an executive producer.
Screen Australia’s investments in children’s projects this year include the live-action series Galaxy Girl (Moody Street Kids and Princess Pictures) and family-friendly features Laser Beak Man (Flying Bark and Studio B Animation) and The Great Dinosaur Race (Fnbproductions).
