CBC-APTN Early Stage Scripted Development Program for Indigenous Creators

Who is eligible?

• Indigenous-controlled companies engaged in screen-based content production
• Companies producing or supporting TV, film, web, digital narrative content, and XR (VR, AR)

Who is not eligible

• Companies that are not Indigenous-controlled (less than 51% ownership by First Nations, Inuit or Métis individuals who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents).
• Businesses whose main activity is not the production or support of screen-based content (such as TV, film, web, digital narrative content, or XR).
• Companies that are insolvent, bankrupt, or undergoing business reorganization under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada).

Eligible expenses

• Accessibility expenses during the application stages, including application writing and support, video or audio recording, equipment rentals, professional fees, and language interpretation/translation fees.
• Final report submission support related to accessibility needs.

Eligible geographic areas

• Companies with their head office registered in Canada.

• Vision and strength of the project idea.
• Viability of the project and readiness, including scope and timeline.
• Impact, particularly the advancement of the applicant’s career within Indigenous storytelling and contribution to the Indigenous Screen Sector.
• Regional and intersectional representation.
• Thoughtfulness, thoroughness, and clarity of the application, including representation of Indigenous languages and sustainable production practices.

• Step 1: Review Program Guidelines and Eligibility
  • Read the ISO General Funding Guidelines Policy.
  • Consult the ISO Determining Indigenous Identity Guide.
  • Review the CBC-APTN Early Stage Scripted Program Guidelines.
  • Download and review the application checklist for the program.
• Step 2: Gather Required Application Materials
  • Complete the Eligibility Form.
  • Fill in the Applicant Information Form (Individual, Sole Proprietor, or Company as appropriate).
  • Complete the Project Information Form.
  • Draft a Project Proposal.
  • Prepare bios and CVs for all applicants.
  • Compile a pitch document or creative outline.
  • Gather chain of title or current IP documentation.
  • Optional: Prepare a pitch video and request/support letters.
  • Complete the Application Requirements Checklist.
  • Supply voluntary personal data, if desired.
  • Complete the ISO Declaration.
• Step 3: Submit Application in ISO Apply Portal
  • Access the ISO Apply Portal online.
  • Upload all required forms and supporting documents.
  • Ensure all sections of the application are complete.
  • Submit the application via the portal before the stated deadline (July 10, 2024, at 5:00 pm PST).
• Step 4: Application Review and Notification
  • Await initial eligibility review by ISO Program Coordinator and Manager.
  • Respond promptly to any requests for additional or missing information (within 10 business days if contacted).
  • Funding notifications will be sent within 1–2 months following the closing date.
• Step 5: Accessibility and Accommodations (if needed)
  • If you require accessibility support, contact ISO at funding@iso-bea.ca for assistance (up to $500 available for eligible costs).
  • Submit accommodation requests at least 10 business days prior to the deadline if an extension is needed.

• Funding received through this program is considered taxable income by the Canada Revenue Agency for individual applicants.
• Applicants may request an extension to submit their application if requested at least 10 business days in advance of the program deadline.
• The ISO may provide up to $500 in accessibility funding to support applicants with barriers during the application process.
• All recipients are required to acknowledge ISO support in project credits using a textual reference and bilingual animated logo.