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Program for Black and Racialized Communities - Canada
Closed
Source verified July 10, 2026

Program for Black and Racialized Communities

Funding for Black-led audiovisual productions
Latest source update
Last Update: July 9, 2026
Latest change: The Summary of Changes and required-documents guidance now show new PBRC rules, including multilingual projects, DLP access, and updated envelope timing.
View change
PBRC guidance updated
The Summary of Changes 2026-2027 now shows that PBRC can include projects in languages other than English or French, and that PBRC applicants may access DLP funding if they meet both programs’ rules. It also says the minimum envelope allocation for PBRC must be in place before the CMF financing agreement is signed. The List of Required Documents 2026-2027 also changed: the DAF note was shortened, and the treaty application requirement was softened from required to if available. These updates affect who can qualify, how projects are positioned, and how application materials are assembled.
Funding available
$ 100,000 - $ 750,000
Deadline
December 8, 2026
Opened September 15, 2026
Location
Canada
Who can apply

Black-owned and controlled production companies

See full eligibility

Overview

Supports audiovisual production by Black and racialized communities. Maximum funding is $750,000 for drama and animation, and $550,000 for documentary, variety and performing arts, and children and youth projects.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Develop strategic partnerships
  • Increase social or community impact
  • Implement environmental initiatives
Eligible Funding
  • Maximum amount : 750,000 $
  • Minimum amount : 100,000 $
  • Up to 60% of project cost

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Location
  • Canada
Legal structures
  • For-profit business
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • Other Racialized Persons
  • Black Canadians

Next Steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Activities funded

  • Production of English- and French-language audiovisual projects

Documents Needed

  • A completed and approved electronic BROADCASTER AGREEMENT FORM (BAF) linked to the application form for each Canadian broadcaster providing an eligible licence fee and/or a contribution from its 2026-2027 CMF Broadcaster Envelope
  • A completed and approved DISTRIBUTOR AGREEMENT FORM (DAF) for applications using an Eligible Distribution Advance
  • DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT(S), proof of distribution commitment, with or without distribution advances
  • Narrative Positioning Policy Applicant Attestation Form; Community Engagement Plan - 2026-2027; and Sustainability Plan - 2026-2027
  • Awards and Festivals Summary Form; Budget; Budget: Digital Media (as required); Cashflow; PFCO Calculator; Recoupment Structure; and List of Required Documents

Official resources

Program guide

Appendix a 2026-2027

CMF Linear Content

Development and Predevelopment Funding

Application form

2026-27 Narrative Positioning Policy

Appendix B Business Policies

Declaration of Canadian Status of the Organization and Corporate Information

Excel Spreadsheet

Excel Spreadsheet

Supporting document

Excel Spreadsheet

Excel Spreadsheet

List Of Required Documents - 2026-2027

Predevelopment Programs

Selective Programs

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • Black-owned and controlled production companies
  • Production companies owned and controlled by people of color
  • Canadian-controlled companies
  • Linear audiovisual production companies

Who is not eligible

  • Companies not owned and controlled by Black or racialized owners
  • Projects led by applicants outside the ownership and control requirements
  • Applicants that already received Black and Racialized Communities predevelopment funding in 2025-2026 for English-language projects

Eligible expenses

  • Apprentice positions for members of Black and racialized communities

Eligible geographic areas

  • Canada

Selection criteria

  • Market interest
  • Team track record and experience
  • Community engagement and sustainability
  • Originality and creativity
  • Production value and readiness for production

How to apply

  • Step 1: Prepare application materials
    • Complete the application form.
    • Gather the required supporting documents.
  • Step 2: Submit the application
    • Upload the documents through the CMF application process.
    • Submit by the published deadline.
  • Step 3: Await review
    • The CMF assigns the file to business analysts after receipt.
    • Additional information may be requested.

Processing and Agreement

  • Applications are reviewed through a selective process.
  • A jury made up of members of Black and racialized communities evaluates projects.
  • Projects are scored using an evaluation grid.
  • Funding decisions depend on available program funds and ranking.
  • Approved projects require a financing agreement before funding.

Additional information

  • A separate Applicant Attestation Form must be completed and submitted for each Co-Applicant.

Contacts

Frequently Asked Questions about the Program for Black and Racialized Communities Program

What is the Program for Black and Racialized Communities?

Supports audiovisual production by Black and racialized communities. Maximum funding is $750,000 for drama and animation, and $550,000 for documentary, variety and performing arts, and children and youth projects.

How much funding can be received?

Program for Black and Racialized Communities Funds up to 60% of admissible expenses, capped at $750,000 per project.

What is the deadline to apply?

Applications will open on September 15, 2026.

Who is eligible for the Program for Black and Racialized Communities program?

To be eligible for the Program for Black and Racialized Communities program, you must: Black and racialized ownership and control Community screenwriter or director Minimum envelope allocation required

What expenses are eligible under Program for Black and Racialized Communities?

Production of English- and French-language audiovisual projects

Who can I contact for more information about the Program for Black and Racialized Communities?

You can contact Canada Media Fund (CMF) by email at cmf.fmc.coordination@telefilm.ca.

Where is the Program for Black and Racialized Communities available?

The Program for Black and Racialized Communities program is available across Canada.