The Canada Media Fund (CMF) and Telefilm Canada will be working together on a three-year strategy for growth and inclusion in the Canadian screen sector.
The funders announced Tuesday (Oct. 15) that they are developing a three-year joint strategy that focuses on supporting creators who identify as Black or a person of colour via training initiatives, partnerships and data collection.
The goal of the strategy is to increase access to training institutions, collaborate with organizations to offer equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA) programs and integrate data-driven decisions into their policies and programs. It will be developed in consultation with members of the Black and racialized communities and key members of the industry.
Telefilm and CMF will also collaborate with other federal audiovisual institutions, according to a news release.
In a statement, CMF president and CEO Valerie Creighton (pictured left) said the collaboration “marks a significant step forward in our commitment to growth and inclusion … paving the way for a more representative and authentic cultural narrative that resonates with audiences at home and globally.”
CMF released its 2024-27 EDIA strategy last month, which outlines a number of priorities, including enhancing the level of accessibility of its programs, improving its data collection and establishing a Sector Development Support program.
The funder has already established its data collection system via Persona-ID, which allows CMF to measure and monitor the level of diverse representation in its programs.
Telefilm is in the midst of a strategic review of its programs and initiatives, announced as part of its 2024-27 strategic plan. The strategy includes plans to increase its operational efficiency, including the “judicial use of artificial intelligence,” and to work with industry partners on modernizing the screen sector.
“By mobilizing together with the CMF and the industry, we are enhancing our work in the discovery, development and promotion of Canada’s Black and people of colour,” said Julie Roy (pictured right), executive director and CEO of Telefilm Canada. “This joint strategy will enable us to address industry needs more effectively and implement meaningful changes that reflect the rich diversity and boundless talent of our creators and communities.”
Photos courtesy of CMF and Telefilm