Crafting Success Stories for Black Filmmakers
Program Overview
Career Bridge is a dynamic program that equips young Black filmmakers in the GTHA with the tools for success. With guidance from industry experts, this program helps you create an expertly designed pitch deck and participants have the opportunity to receive funding to create a professional proof of concept.
Embrace your potential with Career Bridge - your gateway to the film industry.
Who is the Program for?
Career Bridge is a program for Black Filmmakers in the GTHA between the ages of 18-34 who are trying to enter the film and television industry but do not yet have the resources and network.
Proof-of-Concept
A proof-of-concept is a short film composed of scenes that best represent the concept, story, tone and themes of a potential film or television series. This also helps demonstrate the skill and vision of the director or screenwriter.
Pitch Deck
A film pitch deck is a visually engaging document filmmakers use to present their films or series. The pitch deck is utilized to highlight key elements of the film, including the storyline, characters, and visual style. The objective is to convince investors or studios to support the project.
Program Path
THE JOURNEY
Phase One
Phase One equips Black creatives with a polished, professional pitch deck that brings their vision to life. Delivered fully virtually, the program combines expert-led workshops, tailored mentorship, and one-on-one guidance from a Development Producer to help you confidently present your project.
Step One: Orientation
Kick off the program with a meeting with our Program Coordinator and get paired with an industry expert who will support you throughout the journey.
Step Two: Essential Workshop
Join our signature workshop, The Fundamentals of a Pitch, where you’ll learn the core principles of creating a compelling pitch. Your paired industry expert will provide personalized feedback and career guidance as you develop your project.
Step Three: Mentorship
Engage in one-on-one sessions with your industry expert to refine your pitch deck, gain actionable feedback, and receive guidance tailored to your creative goals.
Step Four: Graphic Designer Pairing
Collaborate with a professional Graphic Designer to bring your pitch deck to life. Work through two rounds of revisions at scheduled intervals to ensure your deck is visually striking and fully aligned with your project vision.
Step Five: Industry Networking (Optional)
You may have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and expand your professional network through networking events organized as part of the program
Phase Two
Phase Two gives selected participants the exciting opportunity to bring their vision to life with funding from OBAC to produce a two-minute proof of concept (POC). Participants are chosen based on demonstrated readiness and the strength of their pitch package. Each participant will be paired with a producer or production company to provide mentorship, guidance, and hands-on support throughout the production process.
Step One: Orientation
Kick off Phase Two with a meeting with our Program Coordinator and get paired with your assigned producer or production company.
Step Two: Industry Expert Pairing
Work closely with your producer or production company mentor to receive feedback and career guidance as you develop your POC.
Step Three: Proof of Concept Production
Bring your POC to life! Your assigned producer or production company will manage all the logistics, including creating a production schedule and overseeing the shoot. You’ll take the lead on all creative aspects, working hand-in-hand with your producer to transform your vision into a polished, compelling proof of concept.
Step Four: Post-Production Online Edit
Your producer or production company will help source a skilled editor to complete the online edit of your POC, ensuring your vision is captured professionally.
Step Five: Post-Production Offline Edit
A post-production house will finalize your offline edit. You may participate in an in-person session, or the process will be completed virtually.
Step Six: Showcase of Proof of Concept (Optional)
You may have the opportunity to present your POC during OBAC Graduation, showcasing your work to industry professionals and peers.
Application Deadline: October 26th at 11:59pm
Admission Requirements
Self-identify as Black
Be between the ages 18-34 years
Live in the Greater Toronto Area
Be available for initial assessment and 1:1 mentorship sessions
Be able to demonstrate an intentional commitment to the industry through either self-made work or education
Career Bridge is an inclusive program, and is open to applicants regardless of disability, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, or socio-economic status as defined by the Equality Act.
FAQs
Who is the program for?
Career Bridge is designed for Black filmmakers in the GTHA (Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area) between the ages of 18–34 who:
- Be Black-identifying, between the ages of 18–34
- Reside in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA)
- Have or be eligible to receive a CAVCO number
- Be an early-career to mid-career filmmaker with at least one completed project and a new project currently in development (short film, feature, series, or documentary) filmmaker with a project in development (short film, feature, series, or documentary
What is a CAVCO Number?
A CAVCO Personnel Number (CPN) is a unique number issued by the Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Office (CAVCO). It is used to:
- Track eligible individuals working in Canadian film and television productions
- Verify Canadian residency for tax credit purposes
Is there an application fee?
No. There is no cost to submit
I do not have any industry experience, am I eligible?
Yes, Career Bridge is for individuals who can demonstrate an intentional commitment to the industry through either self-made work or education.
I do not currently live in the GTA. Can I apply?
Applicants must currently be located in the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area. (Regions include: Toronto, Durham, Halton, Peel & York)
I am currently in further/higher education (university, film school, etc), can I apply?
Yes, however, you must fit the eligibility criteria.
I am under 18, can I apply?
This program is for those 18 and older.
Can I apply with only student projects?
Yes. Student projects are acceptable.
Can I reapply for next year if unsuccessful?
Yes, there are no conditions for reapplying.
What is a proof-of-concept (POC)?
A proof-of-concept is a short piece of test material it can be sizzle, trailer, reel, scene or short (2 minutes for this program) that highlights the story, tone, and themes of your proposed film or TV series. It’s designed to showcase your skill and vision as a filmmaker and can be used to present your idea to funders.
What is a pitch deck?
A pitch deck is a visually engaging document used to present your film or series idea to investors, funders, and studios. It includes key elements such as:
- Storyline and characters
- Visual style and themes
- Why the project is marketable and unique
Have additional questions?
Contact us at info@oyablackarts.org or follow us on Instagram at @oyablackarts for the latest updates.
