CMF launches pilot program to boost Canadian digital content creation
The CMF is accepting applications for funding under the Digital Creators Pilot Program until December 14, 2023
Toronto, October 26, 2023 – The Canada Media Fund (CMF) today announced a new pilot program designed to support the growth of mid-career Canadian digital creators making short-form video content for social media platforms. Part of our Experimental Stream, the Digital Creators Pilot Program (DCPP)’s total budget will be $500,000 for its inaugural edition, which will fund content creation as well as business and marketing activities.
“Great content is found on all platforms. As an organization focused on the future of storytelling in all its forms, we are excited to offer support to digital content creators active on social media,” says CMF President and CEO Valerie Creighton. “This pilot program will provide successful applicants with opportunities to develop creatively, build their skills and further their long-term business objectives so they can create more of the original content their audiences want to see—and acquire new fans along the way. We’re excited to see the impact of this critical pilot program as Canada’s audiovisual industry begins sweeping modernization efforts.”
Eligibility for the pilot program
At the time of submitting an application, creators will need to provide a business plan and demonstrate that they have been active for at least 12 months, with an average of one post per month in that period, on at least one of the eligible platforms: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube.
Applicants will also need to demonstrate that they meet a minimum engagement threshold, which differs according to whether they create content in English or in French.
Funding may be used for identified business and marketing activities such as hiring a marketing consultant, social media manager, legal or accounting services, and more. Recipients will also be required to deliver at least four pieces of new prepared and edited content, which must meet all criteria pertaining to Canadian ownership and be produced in a CMF-supported genre as defined in the program’s guidelines.
Read the full program guidelines
Funding decisions will be made by a jury comprised of peers in the digital creation ecosystem and CMF Program Administrator analysts. Successful applicants will receive up to $20,000 for eligible costs and will have six months to complete their stated activities.
About the Canada Media Fund
The Canada Media Fund (CMF) fosters, develops, finances, and promotes the production of Canadian content and applications for all audiovisual media platforms. The CMF guides Canadian content towards a competitive global environment by fostering industry innovation, rewarding success, enabling a diversity of voice, and promoting access to content through public and private sector partnerships. The CMF receives financial contributions from the Government of Canada and Canada’s cable, satellite, and IPTV distributors. Visit our website for more information.
Industry Contact
CMF Program Administrator
1-800-567-0890
cmf.fmc.coordination@telefilm.ca
Media contact
Maxime Ruel
Senior Manager, Communications
mruel@cmf-fmc.ca
