R ogers Communications has joined the Banff World Media Festival’s (BANFF) Indigenous Screen Summit Pitch Forum (ISS) as a multi-year presenting partner.

BANFF announced Monday (Feb. 26) that Rogers will be supporting the annual pitch forum, which will have its third edition at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alta. on June 9.

Rogers joins ISS founding partners the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) and the Canada Media Fund (CMF).

The ISS Pitch Forum gives 15 Indigenous producers and creators the opportunity to pitch scripted and unscripted projects to an expert jury. The pitch presentations are divided into scripted drama, scripted comedy and documentary/unscripted. The application deadline for the third annual pitch event is March 7.

“ISO is pleased to announce our continued support of the ISS Pitch Forum,” said ISO CEO Kerry Swanson in a statement. “We are committed to empowering Indigenous storytellers to present their stories at this important global market and to develop meaningful connections within the industry. We are so happy to welcome Rogers Communications to the circle as a presenting partner of the ISS Pitch Forum.”

Rogers Group of Fund director Robin Mirsky added that Rogers is “committed to providing opportunities for Indigenous creators to bring their ideas to the national stage by supporting the ISS in their mission to increase access to the industry and remove barriers to funding.”

Valerie Creighton, president and CEO of CMF, noted that Rogers’ support “highlights the necessary and growing support for Indigenous projects at home and globally.”

“The ISS has already contributed to the development and distribution of Indigenous projects presented during the Pitch Forum,” said Jenn Kuzmyk, executive director of BANFF and VP, publisher of Playback. “We are delighted that with the help of our partners, we can continue to grow the ISS to offer Indigenous creators access to top industry professionals, the ability to forge industry partnerships, and to develop and garner strategic partnerships to further their projects.”

The 45th Banff World Media Festival runs from June 9 to 12.

Photo by Kristian Bogner Photography; pictured: Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers