Indie producers surveyed by the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) in a new report say they are struggling to balance time and costs when it comes to development.

The report surveyed emerging and established producers in English Canada about their experience with industry training opportunities, and collected data in late 2022 on more than 200 professional development programs. It examined what opportunities are available, what producers say their needs are, the barriers they’re facing, and how they can make the most out of the programs available.

More than 76% of the producers surveyed indicated that training and professional development were important to their career development, with a preference for workforce opportunities and hands-on workshops.

Gaining a better understanding about business operations, tax credits and financing, and how to stabilize and run a business were some of the key areas of focus that were identified by producers. Time and costs, meanwhile, were identified as barriers that kept producers from getting the training they need.

“As for cost, some participants reported that the fees required to attend training did present a barrier,” the report outlined. “But, in many cases, it’s more complex than that (and tied to the time barrier): due to time constraints, choosing to attend training can mean sacrificing work opportunities and missing out on income.”

The CMPA offered considerations to help producers according to their specific needs, including clearly defining career stage, increasing support for established producers, laddering and synching programs, boosting hands-on training and mentorship programs, including international opportunities, as well as sustainable production training.

The report also highlighted the need for establishing deeper diversity and equity programs and enhancing anti-racism and anti-oppression training.

“We hope this report will generate a discussion about how the industry can work collaboratively and build on the solid foundation that exists to meet the varied needs of this country’s talented media producers,” said CMPA’s VP, communications, marketing and membership, Andrew Addison.

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