The Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative Applications Open

The Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative offers a professional springboard for underrepresented creators and producers from across Canada.

The goal of the initiative is to jump-start and accelerate individual careers and help projects at all stages move forward. Over the long term, the festival aims to foster a legacy of greenlights and international sales for the program participants and the partners who work with them. Read more about the program here.

Throughout 2020, a stark light has been shone on the systemic inequities and racism that Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour communities continue to face throughout society, including in the film and television industry. Although diversity, inclusion, and representation are continuous priorities in BANFF’s content and fellowships programs, we can and intend to do more to champion meaningful change and support these underrepresented communities. In this spirit, the 2021 edition of the Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative will be open exclusively to candidates who identify as being from one or more racially diverse groups, such as African, Black, Caribbean, East Asian, First Nations, Inuit, Latinx, Métis, Middle Eastern, Pacific Islander, South Asian, and Western Asian.

Now entering its fourth year, the Diversity of Voices Initiative was designed to offer a professional springboard for francophone, Indigenous, and women creators and producers from across Canada. We will continue the program’s mandate to support these communities, but with an intersectional focus. The 2021 edition of the program will be seeking applications from francophone candidates of colour, Indigenous candidates, and women candidates of colour, as well as candidates of colour of all genders. Approximately 25% of program spots are reserved francophone participants.

Learn more about program Eligibility and Submission Guidelines.