If you’re a fan of film and television—whether you're still reeling from the twists of The White Lotus or can’t stop thinking about the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us—there’s a way to enjoy your favorite shows and support the industry at the same time. Several Canadian charities are dedicated to nurturing talent, promoting diversity, and enriching the media landscape. Here’s how you can get involved:
🎬 Canadian Film Centre (CFC)
The Canadian Film Centre (CFC) runs a range of high-impact programs designed to develop the next generation of storytellers in film, television, acting, music, and digital media. Their flagship offerings include the Norman Jewison Film Program, which supports directors, writers, producers, and editors through hands-on labs focused on narrative storytelling and collaboration. The CBC Actors Conservatory equips emerging screen actors with the skills, confidence, and reel content needed to break into the industry, while the Slaight Family Music Lab connects Canadian composers and songwriters to onscreen opportunities—fostering original scoring and soundtracks in film and TV.
The CFC also offers technical intensives like their Cinematography Workshop, which strengthens visual storytelling and camera expertise. Across all programs, the CFC emphasizes creative collaboration, industry mentorship, and real-world production experience. Many alumni go on to work on major projects both in Canada and internationally—some even shaping the very kinds of shows audiences binge. Supporting the CFC means investing directly in Canadian talent and helping bring bold, diverse stories to the screen.
🎥 OYA Black Arts Coalition (OBAC)
OYA Black Arts Coalition is a dynamic organization dedicated to advancing Black creatives and entrepreneurs in film, television, and digital media. Their Board of Directors features world-renowned filmmakers who bring deep industry expertise and creative vision to the organization’s leadership. OYA’s strength lies in its strategic partnerships with major industry players—including CBC, Corus Entertainment, and the Canadian Film Centre (CFC)—ensuring that their programming remains relevant, forward-looking, and closely aligned with current industry standards.
Programs like OYA Emerging Filmmakers and OYA Career Leap offer participants tailored mentorship, hands-on skills training, and access to professional networks, helping them succeed behind the camera and across the broader creative economy. By fostering both artistic development and industry access, OYA is cultivating a new generation of Black talent ready to lead and shape the future of storytelling.
📺 Knowledge Network
In a media landscape flooded with sensationalism and questionable sources, Knowledge Network stands out as a trusted destination for thoughtful, high-quality programming. Their team curates content from around the world that informs, inspires, and sparks meaningful conversations—always free from commercial breaks. As a proudly public broadcaster, Knowledge Network prioritizes substance over spectacle, offering diverse perspectives that often get overlooked by mainstream, ratings-driven networks.
What truly sets them apart is their commitment to British Columbia’s creative community. Knowledge Network is the only platform solely dedicated to showcasing the work of BC filmmakers, providing a vital space for local stories to be seen and heard. Their accreditation by Imagine Canada further speaks to their integrity and leadership in the nonprofit sector. By becoming a Partner, you’re not just supporting the media—you’re joining a community that values independent thought, cultural richness, and authentic storytelling.
🎬 Film & Video Arts Society of Alberta
For over four decades, the Film and Video Arts Society of Alberta (FAVA) has been a cornerstone of Edmonton’s independent film and media arts scene. As a not-for-profit, artist-run centre, FAVA provides affordable access to professional-grade equipment, studio spaces, and a variety of educational programs tailored to both emerging and established creators. From hands-on workshops and labs to community-driven festivals like FAVA Fest and the Gotta Minute Film Festival, FAVA fosters a vibrant ecosystem where storytellers can thrive. By supporting FAVA, you’re investing in a creative community that champions innovation, collaboration, and the diverse voices shaping Canada’s screen culture.
🎭 CEE Centre For Young Black Professionals
The CEE Centre for Young Black Professionals' E-Trades program is a career training and development initiative designed to support Black youth facing barriers to employment. This program introduces participants to various behind-the-scenes roles in the entertainment industry, including construction, craft services, grip, special effects (SPFX), costume, and lighting. By providing hands-on experience and specialist training, E-Trades equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue careers in these essential film trades.
Through E-Trades, CEE aims to diversify the entertainment industry by creating pathways for Black youth to enter and excel in technical and trade roles that are critical to film and television production. The program not only offers practical training but also fosters a supportive community that encourages personal and professional growth. By investing in the development of Black professionals in the entertainment trades, CEE contributes to a more inclusive and representative industry landscape.
Ways to Support:
Donate - Financial contributions help these organizations continue their vital work.
Volunteer - Offer your time and skills to support various programs and events.
Spread the Word - Share information about these charities with your network to raise awareness.
By supporting these organizations, you not only enjoy quality content but also contribute to a thriving, inclusive Canadian film industry.
FAQs
1. How can individuals get involved in supporting Canadian film and television?
These people can contribute by attending screenings, fundraising events, promoting Canadian productions, donating to film projects, or volunteering at organisations such as the Canadian Film Centre to assist in developing the emerging talent in movie and television.
2. What is the Canadian Film Centre (CFC)?
The Canadian Film Centre is a prominent development centre of the creative screen industries in Canada, which provides programs to develop the skills, networks and opportunities of the filmmakers, actors, writers and producers to prosper in both national and international media industries.
3. Do CFC programs provide internships or grants?
Yes, programmes of CFC provide mentorships, internships and monetary assets like grants or prizes, which are intended to provide novice creators with on-the-job experience, applied abilities, and capital to further a project, script or production in the Canadian screen industry.
4. How can emerging filmmakers or actors apply to CFC’s programs?
Applications can be done via the CFC site, and the portfolios, scripts, or demo reels can be sent depending on the program. It has been selected on the basis of creativity, potential and in agreement with the mission of CFC, developing professionals in the screen industry in Canada.
5. What funding or grants are available for Canadian filmmakers?
The Canadian filmmakers could get funding in terms of CFC initiatives, government grants, and private foundations. The programs facilitate script development, production, and distribution, assisting creators in bringing their ideas to life and exporting Canadian culture and creativity to the rest of the world.
