FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

• New partnership between the Independent Production Fund, On Screen Manitoba and Creative Saskatchewan
• Prairie-based series producers and writers will gain critical training and mentorship to strengthen funding applications
• Programme ouvert aux candidatures francophones
• Application portal now open here

July 21, 2025 — The Independent Production Fund (IPF) is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of the IPF Pre-Application Training Program for Prairie producers, a new initiative designed to support emerging and mid-career producers based in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Developed as a counterpart to last year’s successful Pre-Application Training Program for Northern Producers, this edition will provide Prairies’ creators with essential training and mentorship to help them build competitive series development funding applications.

An important objective of the program will be to improve funding outcomes of prairie-based producers, including francophone producers, with IPF programs.

Facilitated by the Whistler Film Festival Society (WFF), a national leader in professional development for screen creators, the program aims to improve the overall quality and success rate of funding applications from Prairie-based producers applying to the IPF Short Form Series Development Program.

The program will:

• Provide Prairie producers with a comprehensive understanding of the materials required for a strong funding application;
• Connect participants with seasoned story editors and development executives;
• Help participants improve their understanding of the legal, budgetary and scheduling materials required for a competitive application.

“The IPF is extremely proud to launch this initiative along with On Screen Manitoba and Creative Saskatchewan to support the unique voices and talents based in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. We believe this program will open new doors for Prairie-based creators, especially francophone creators, and increase success for the next wave of storytellers based in this vibrant and diverse region,” says Jon Taylor, CEO of the IPF.

Working with WFF’s producer-in-residence Brendon Sawatzky, who will support as program facilitator and mentor, participants will receive individually tailored guidance and attend workshops led by top industry professionals from across the country.

“We’re thrilled to collaborate with the Independent Production Fund, Whistler Film Festival Society, and Creative Saskatchewan on this initiative. It’s a meaningful opportunity to equip Manitoba producers and writers—particularly Francophone and Indigenous creators—with the tools, mentorship, and national connections needed to bring their stories forward. Strengthening Prairie voices through professional development tailored to regional needs is essential to building a more inclusive and competitive industry across Canada.” – Lindsay Somers, Executive Director, On Screen Manitoba

“We’re proud to support this Pre-Application Program, which has a strong track record of launching successful careers and projects. It’s an incredible opportunity for Saskatchewan-based producers to sharpen their skills, expand their networks, and take their projects to the next level.” – Erin Dean, CEO of Creative Saskatchewan

The IPF Pre-Application Training Program for Prairie Producers is now open for submissions. To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit the Whistler Film Festival website.

À l’intention des producteurs francophones :

Les candidatures de créateurs et créatrices francophones sont vivement encouragées. Nous croyons que les outils, les ressources et les liens que les participants pourront y développer leur seront bénéfiques, même si le programme est offert principalement en anglais.

Pour connaître tous les détails du programme, visitez le site de Whistler Film Festival. Pour déposer votre candidature, remplissez le formulaire ici.