CBC Creative Relief Fund

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What is the Playwright Pilot Stream?

The CBC Creative Relief Fund - Playwright Pilot stream will be open for playwrights with at least one produced play to submit either new concepts or existing plays to CBC for adaptation to linear or digital series. CBC is looking for concepts that are a natural fit for either limited or ongoing series, episodic or serialized. We are looking for projects with a compelling POV and unique voice. CBC is committed to reflecting diverse, contemporary Canada in urban as well as rural settings.

We will develop dramas and comedies but are not generally looking for historical material. We will fund the writing of a pilot script with an intended broadcast duration of either 30 or 60 minutes (inclusive of commercials). The material must be able to be shot in Canada and meet the criteria of CanCon as laid out by the CRTC.

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What do I need to apply?

Any Canadian playwright can apply, as long they are not an employee of CBC. There is a limit of one project per writer. All projects must comply with CBC’s Code of Conduct, including those provisions related to conflict of interest. If your project is chosen for development, you will have the ability to bring on a story editor and/or producer consultant. If you already have interest from a producer, you can include them in your proposal but having a producing partner is not a requirement for this phase of development.

How much funding is available?

If your project is chosen, you will be eligible to receive $30,000 for a 60 minute or $15,000 for a 30 minute pilot script (plus any applicable guild fringes). CBC will also support the costs of a story editor and producer-consultant according to industry standard rates.

How to Apply and When:

In order to submit your application, you’ll need:

  • Creative overview of your project, 1-2 pages (if it is based on an existing play, you may submit any reviews etc. that you think will be helpful)
  • CV and letter of interest of the proposed production partner, if you have one.

What happens if my project is selected?

You will be offered the opportunity to enter into an agreement with CBC which provides CBC with an exclusive option to license one or more programs based on the material and/or enter into further development. For more information about CBC's standard development terms, please see the CBC Business & Rights Television Development page.

There is a maximum of 1 playwright submission allowed per person.

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The submission period is now closed.