When preparing your proposal, please include the following info in a single document, clearly labeled “Main Application”:

1. A summary of your series concept, including genre, logline, key themes, target audience(s) and length.
2. A synopsis of the pilot episode (maximum one page).
3. The main characters’ descriptions, including their backgrounds, motivations, and arcs.
4. A high-level outline of the first season (maximum two pages).
5. Short bio(s) for the lead creatives, clearly identifying each person’s role on the project (e.g., Writer, Director, Producer). Bullet points are acceptable.
6. Previous Development: What work has already been undertaken on this project, if any? If you have already received previous development support for this project, please provide details, including the source of any financial support and when it was received. Please provide short answers (bullet points acceptable). 
7. If the project is currently optioned by a producer, please provide a written statement that includes the name of the producer or production company and the option expiry date.
8. A personal statement explaining your background, why you are interested in this program, and how your perspective as a Black or Racialized writer influences your storytelling. Tell us about yourself and the experience, relationships and skills you are bringing to this story (500 words max).
9. Written confirmation of your ability to commit to the program’s schedule and requirements, including attendance at workshops, meetings and the retreat, and deadlines for deliverables.
10. Additional documents to be uploaded:
    • A current resume or CV highlighting relevant writing and industry experience.
    • A sample of your previous screen-based work, such as a script for an hour or half-hour TV Series (not including news programming); multiple episodes of a web, animation or children’s series (20+ pages); or a short or feature film. 
      • Samples are not required to have been broadcast on TV or released theatrically. We encourage you to submit a sample that best reflects your voice as a screenwriter.
      • Your writing sample MUST be a different script from the one you are applying to develop through this program. In order for all projects to be fairly assessed, the writing sample submitted must NOT be connected to the pitch treatment included in the application. 
    • Completed Attestation Form 

*Note: by providing a bio and headshot, you hereby grants CISF, BSO, Doc Institute, Rogers Group of Funds, and any other affiliated entities permission to disseminate the information contained in the bio and the photograph file to press, funders, etc. for promotional, reporting, and other purposes as appropriate. 

When preparing your proposal, please include the following info in a single document, clearly labeled “Main Application”: 

1. An outline of  the documentary’s purpose, target audience(s), your connection to the documentary topics and/or subjects, and unique angle/perspective. 
2. Include a brief synopsis that includes objectives and potential impact of the project. Explain how you have identified a subject(s) that is/are compelling and worth exploring.
3. A personal statement explaining your background, why you are interested in this program, and how your perspective as a Black or Racialized filmmaker influences your storytelling. Tell us about yourself and the experience, relationships and skills you are bringing to this story (500 words max).
4. Short bio(s) for the lead creatives, clearly identifying each person’s role on the project (e.g., Writer, Director, Producer). Bullet points are acceptable.
5. A statement of your ability to commit to the program’s schedule and requirements, including attendance at workshops, meetings, the Doc Institute’s Breakthrough program and Hot Docs Industry Events (TBA), and deadlines for deliverables.
6. Additional Info to be uploaded:
   • A detailed resume or CV highlighting your writing or directing experience, relevant skills, and any previous industry work showcasing your range and skills. 
   • A one-page synopsis of a previous documentary film that has been broadcast on TV, released theatrically or premiered at an international film festival. List of eligible festivals. 
     • You must include your credit on the film, dates of broadcast, release, or premiere, and the name of the broadcaster or exhibitor. 
     • You may include a pitch document in your application.
   • Completed Attestation Form 

*Note: by providing a bio and headshot, the applicant hereby grants CISF, BSO, Doc Institute, Rogers Group of Funds, and any other affiliated entities permission to disseminate the information contained in the bio and the photograph file to press, funders, etc. for promotional, reporting, and other purposes as appropriate.