Mentorship
The CMPA’s diverse mentorship programs are a launch pad for the next class of Canadian media producers.
Contact
Sarolta Csete
Director, Mentorship and International Development
1-613-688-0952 /
1-800-656-7440 ext. 338
sarolta.csete@cmpa.ca
Ladane Ali
Coordinator, Mentorship, International Development & Policy
613-688-0950 /
1-800-656-7440 ext. 339
ladane.ali@cmpa.ca
For over 25 years, the CMPA’s National Mentorship Program has invested in the next generation of independent producers—and a strong future for our industry—by placing aspiring producers in Canada’s leading production companies.
Successful applicants receive one-on-one training from established producers in everything from development to post, in genres ranging from drama to documentary. Stipends are partially subsidized by the CMPA.
The longstanding success of the mentorship program speaks for itself: more than 85% of NMP alumni continue to work in Canada’s production industry.
The CMPA is committed to eliminating systemic barriers in Canada’s media industry and elevating the voices of underrepresented communities within the domestic production sector. We encourage individuals who self-identify as belonging to an underrepresented group to apply for the opportunities listed below.
ONGOING INTAKE - Student Work Placement Program
Student Work Placement Program
At a glance
Deadline | Ongoing intake. Placements are evaluated and allocated on an ongoing basis until funds remain available. Before applying, please contact Ladane Ali. |
Spots available | Total number of placements will depend on the duration/funds allocated.
At least 50% of placements are dedicated to priority groups for the Government of Canada: (women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Indigenous students, persons with disabilities, visible minorities and newcomers; as well as first-year students.) |
Duration of placement | Up to 40 weeks at 40 hrs per week, subject to approval by the CMPA. |
Mentee stipend | For placements for student applicants who fall under the priority groups for the Government of Canada (women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Indigenous students, persons with disabilities, visible minorities and newcomers; as well as first-year students.)
$11.90 per hour from the program For other student placements $8.50 per hour from the program |
Mentor applicants who do not have a student they wish to co-apply with may submit a detailed job description which will then be distributed to educational institutions in their geographical area and students will apply to the posting directly.
The CMPA is an inclusive organization that is committed to achieving greater diversity and representation from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, including, but not limited to, Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, persons from the broad spectrum of sexes, gender expressions and sexual orientations, and persons with disabilities. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, or persons with intersectional identities.
Mentee eligibility
- Must be a post-secondary student enrolled in an accredited educational institution throughout the duration of the proposed placement
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person on whom refugee status has been conferred
- Must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
- Cannot be an employee or family member of the mentor company
Mentor company eligibility
- Must be a member of the CMPA
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavor to pair mentor companies with suitable candidates. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available
- Must contribute toward the mentee stipend as described above
- A mentor applicant cannot be an employer or family member of the mentee with whom they are submitting a joint application
- The student cannot be hired to replace an employee, they must be a new addition to the team (e.g. if the company had 4 employees in the previous fiscal year, the student must be hired as the 5th employee in this current year.)
Apply with student candidate →
If you don’t have a candidate, you can submit a job posting and/or browse potential candidates here.
CLOSED- Bob Crowe Mentorship Program for Emerging Indigenous Producers
Bob Crowe Mentorship Program for Emerging Indigenous Producers
At a glance
Deadline | Deadline extended to July 4, 2023 due to the long weekend. |
Spots available | 1 |
Duration of placement | 20 weeks @ 40 hrs/week. Must be completed by March 15, 2024. |
Mentee stipend | $16,000 (minimum) $8,000 from the program $8,000 from the mentor company |
Mentee eligibility | Open to Indigenous producers |
Bob Crowe was a passionate film and television producer from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Through his media production companies, Angel Entertainment and Bamboo Shoots, he produced the TV series Rabbit Fall and The Other Side, as well as feature films including Big Muddy. He was a board member of the CMPA and chaired its mentorship committee.
This mentorship was established to honour Bob’s legacy, his contributions to the industry, and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of production talent – especially Indigenous talent.
This mentorship placement will be awarded to an Indigenous producer who will work with an established CMPA member company for a 20-week period and receive general producer training. Preference will be given to applicants from Saskatchewan or Northern Canada, but all applicants outside major production centres are eligible.
The program is open to CMPA member companies in good standing from underrepresented regions and Indigenous candidates who have a demonstrated interest in screen content production.
Mentee eligibility
- Open to Indigenous producers
- Preference will be given to applicants from Saskatchewan or Northern Canada but all applicants outside major production centres are eligible
- Must be a Canadian citizen
- Must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
- Cannot be an employee or family member of the mentor company
- Must be co-applying with a mentor company. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair candidates with limited or no access to suitable mentor companies, with its qualifying members. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also create a mentee profile that will be accessible to mentor companies seeking a candidate. Find out more here.
Mentor company eligibility
- Must be a member of the CMPA
- Preference will be given to applicants from Saskatchewan or Northern Canada but all applicants with head offices outside major production centres are eligible
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair mentor companies with suitable candidates. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also post a mentorship opportunity that will be accessible to menteek seeking a mentor. Find out more here.
- Must contribute a minimum of $ 8,000 toward the mentee stipend
- A mentor applicant cannot be an employer or family member of the mentee with whom they are submitting a joint application
- Preference will be given to applications where the training focuses on film and/or television productions; however, digital media producers are also eligible.
Payment of funds
Each mentee receives a minimum of $16,000 for their placement. The program contributes $8,000, while the mentor company must contribute a minimum of $8,000. Upon selection each mentor company must sign a contract with the CMPA and the mentee, outlining the requirements of the program, including reporting procedures and how funds will be dispersed. Each financial award is to be solely applied to the mentee’s stipend. The CMPA contribution will be disbursed in three installments. Each installment will be given to the mentor upon submission of an invoice for the amount and the required supporting documentation (invoices, mid-term and final reports, final questionnaires and proof of payment for the mentee’s stipend.)
Selection process
A selection panel will award placements. Decisions will be based on the criteria set out for both the mentor and the mentee. The panel will be responsible for evaluating applications on their overall merit and the selection panel’s decisions on the awarded placements will be final. All applications will be assessed against the program’s goal to create meaningful placements that will ultimately help support emerging Indigenous producers’ efforts in developing their knowledge of and experience in the screen-based media production industry. As such, the selection panel may consider a number of factors in order to make their decisions on applications. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the:
- Viability of the mentor-mentee relationship (eg. shared goals and objectives; post-placement employment opportunities with the mentor company; financial contribution to the trainee’s stipend; demonstrated commitment to sharing expertise, and ability and experience in training)
- Clear objectives and skills development goals
- Strength of the proposed work plan (eg. mentee’s job description; diversity of training; mentor supervision) vs. proposed mentee’s related education, professional goals, and work or volunteer experience
- Demonstrated commitment to screen-based media production industry
Historically, CMPA mentorship programs have been oversubscribed; as such some worthy applications may not be successful.
Application process
We only accept applications via our online application portal. Should you require assistance with your application, please contact us.
Please note that applicants will be required to upload the following documents during the process:
Mentees:
- Resumé
- Letter of intent
- Two (2) letters of reference (download template)
Mentors:
- Letter of intent
- Placement work plan (to be completed online)
Apply →
CLOSED - Export Development Mentorship Program
Export Development Mentorship Program
At a glance
Deadline | Deadline extended to July 4, 2023 due to the long weekend.
|
Spots available | |
Duration of placement | 20 weeks @ 40 hrs/week. Must be completed by March 15, 2024. |
Mentee stipend | $16,000 (minimum) $8,000 from the program $8,000 from the mentor company |
Mentee international development support allowance | |
Eligibility | No age restriction. Available across Canada. |
This mentorship program will provide screen-based independent production companies with competitive advantage by working with an emerging or mid-level producer on international development activities for a 20-week period.
The placement will focus on training emerging and mid-level producers in exporting internationally and developing their expertise in co-production. The training must focus on working on international co-productions, attending virtual festivals and markets, market research, developing the company’s export strategy and/or attracting foreign partners or investment.
Under the personal guidance of seasoned industry professionals, participants will further their knowledge, enhance their skill sets, develop their business and creative abilities and increase their potential for career advancement in the independent production sector. Participants will also gain a solid understanding of a variety of practices and strategies that can help Canadian companies compete internationally.
The CMPA is an inclusive organization that is committed to achieving greater diversity and representation from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, including, but not limited to, Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, persons from the broad spectrum of sexes, gender expressions and sexual orientations, and persons with disabilities. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, or persons with intersectional identities.
This program is supported by Telefilm Canada’s Promotions Program.
Mentee eligibility
- Open to Canadian citizens or permanent residents, or person on whom refugee status has been conferred
- Must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
- Cannot be an employee or family member of the mentor company
- Must be co-applying with a mentor company. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair candidates prior to applying with limited or no access to suitable mentor companies, with its qualifying members. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also create a mentee profile that will be accessible to mentor companies seeking a candidate. Find out more here.
Mentor company eligibility
- Must be a member of the CMPA
- Must contribute a minimum of $8,000 toward the mentee stipend
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair mentor companies with suitable candidates. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also post a mentorship opportunity that will be accessible to mentees seeking a mentor. Find out more here.
- Cannot be an employer or family member of the participant with whom they are submitting a joint application
Payment of funds
Each mentee receives a minimum of $16,000 for their placement. The program contributes $8,000, while the mentor company must contribute a minimum of $8,000. Upon selection each mentor company must sign a contract with the CMPA and the mentee, outlining the requirements of the program, including reporting procedures and how funds will be dispersed. Each financial award is to be solely applied to the mentee’s stipend. The CMPA contribution will be disbursed in three instalments. Each instalment will be given to the mentor upon submission of an invoice for the amount and the required supporting documentation (invoices, mid-term and final reports, final questionnaires and proof of payment for the mentee’s stipend).
International business development support
Each mentee is eligible to receive up to $2,000 to offset additional expenses that help enhance their understanding of international market trends, including registration to virtual or in-person international events, subscription to international publications, purchasing market reports, access international consultants or export training opportunities.
Selection process
A selection panel will select the placements. Decisions will be based on the criteria set out for both the mentor and the mentee. The panel will be responsible for evaluating applications on their overall merit and the selection panel’s decisions on the awarded placements will be final. All applications will be assessed against the program’s goal to to create meaningful placements that will ultimately help support emerging and mid-level producers’ efforts in developing their knowledge of and experience in international business development. As such, the selection panel may consider a number of factors in order to make their decisions on applications. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the:
- Viability of the mentor-mentee relationship (e.g., shared goals and objectives; post-placement employment opportunities with the mentor company; financial contribution to the mentee’s stipend; demonstrated commitment to sharing expertise, and ability and experience in training)
- Clear internship objectives and skills development goals
- Strength of the proposed training schedule (e.g., mentee’s job description; diversity of training; mentor supervision) vs. proposed mentee’s related education, professional goals, and work or volunteer experience
- Demonstrated commitment to the film, television and interactive production industry
Historically, CMPA mentorship programs have been oversubscribed; as such some worthy applications may not be successful.
Application process
We only accept applications via our online application portal. Should you require assistance with your application, please contact us.
Please note that applicants will be required to upload the following documents during the process.
Mentees:
- Resumé
- Letter of intent
- Two (2) letters of reference (download template)
Mentors:
- Letter of intent
- Placement work plan (to be completed online)
Apply →
About Telefilm Canada
Created in 1967, Telefilm is dedicated to the cultural, commercial and industrial success of Canada’s audiovisual industry. Through its various funding and promotion programs, Telefilm supports dynamic companies and creative talent here at home and around the world. Telefilm also makes recommendations regarding the certification of audiovisual treaty co-productions to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, and administers the programs of the Canada Media Fund and the Talent Fund, a private donation initiative. telefilm.ca
CLOSED - CMPA British Columbia Production Mentorship Program
CMPA British Columbia Production Mentorship Program
At a glance
Deadline | Deadline extended to July 4, 2023 due to the long weekend.
|
Spots available | 7
Minimum 3 dedicated to mentee applicants from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups |
Duration of placement | 5 placements – 20 weeks @ 40 hrs/week.
2 placements – 40 weeks @ 40 hrs/week 20-week placements must be completed by March 15, 2024. 40-week placements must be completed no later than May 31, 2024 |
Mentee stipend | 20-week placements:
$16,000 (minimum) 40-week placements: $32,000 (minimum) $20,000 from the CMPA |
This program will offer CMPA members in British Columbia the opportunity to work with emerging and mid-level producers. The focus of the initiative is to provide general producer training to those who are starting out their careers, have limited experience in the screen-based media production industry or are transitioning into it from a different field. The program is open to all British Columbia based CMPA member companies in good standing and mentee candidates who have a demonstrated interest in working in production with the ultimate goal of becoming a producer. Activities can take place during any stage of production and include activities including but not limited to research, development, on-set and office production, business affairs, marketing and promotion.
The CMPA is an inclusive organization that is committed to achieving greater diversity and representation from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, including, but not limited to, Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, persons from the broad spectrum of sexes, gender expressions and sexual orientations, and persons with disabilities. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, or persons with intersectional identities.
A minimum of 35% of all mentorship placements will be reserved for mentees from equity-seeking, sovereignty-seeking, or intersectional groups.
Mentee eligibility
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person on whom refugee status has been conferred
- Must be a resident of British Columbia
- Must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
- Cannot be an employee or family member of the mentor company
- Must be co-applying with a mentor company. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair candidates with limited or no access to suitable mentor companies, with its qualifying members. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also create a mentee profile that will be accessible to mentor companies seeking a candidate. Find out more here.
Mentor company eligibility
- Must be a member of the CMPA
- Must be based in British Columbia
- Must contribute a minimum of $8,000/$12,000 toward the mentee stipend
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair mentor companies with suitable candidates. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also post a mentorship opportunity that will be accessible to mentees seeking a mentor. Find out more here.
- A mentor applicant cannot be an employer or family member of the mentee with whom they are submitting a joint application
Selection process
A selection panel will award placements. Decisions will be based on the criteria set out for both the mentor and the mentee. The panel will be responsible for evaluating applications on their overall merit and the selection panel’s decisions on the awarded placements will be final. Given the high number of applications and the limited resources available, some deserving applications may not be successful. All applications will be assessed against the program’s goal to create meaningful placements that will ultimately help support emerging and mid-level producers’ efforts in developing their knowledge of and experience in the screen-based media production industry. As such, the selection panel may consider a number of factors in order to make their decisions on applications. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the:
- Viability of the mentor-mentee relationship (e.g., shared goals and objectives; post-placement employment opportunities with the mentor company; financial contribution to the mentee’s stipend; demonstrated commitment to sharing expertise, and ability and experience in training)
- Clear objectives and skills development goals
- Strength of the proposed work plan (e.g., mentee’s job description; diversity of training; mentor supervision) vs. proposed mentee’s related education, professional goals, and work or volunteer experience
- Demonstrated commitment to screen-based media production industry
Historically, CMPA mentorship programs have been oversubscribed; as such some worthy applications may not be successful.
Payment of funds
Each mentee receives a minimum of $16,000/$32,000 for their placement. The program contributes $8,000, while the mentor company must contribute a minimum of $8,000/$16,000. Upon selection each mentor company must sign a contract with the CMPA and the mentee, outlining the requirements of the program, including reporting procedures and how funds will be dispersed. Each financial award is to be solely applied to the mentee’s stipend. The CMPA contribution will be disbursed in three instalments. Each instalment will be given to the mentor upon submission of an invoice for the amount and the required supporting documentation (invoices, mid-term and final reports, final questionnaires and proof of payment for the mentee’s stipend).
Application process
We only accept applications via our online application portal. Should you require assistance with your application, please contact us.
Please note that applicants will be required to upload the following documents during the process:
Mentees:
- Resumé
- Letter of intent
- Two (2) letters of reference (download template)
Mentors:
- Letter of intent
- Placement work plan (to be completed online)
Apply →
CLOSED - CMPA Mentorship Program for Diverse Producers
CMPA Mentorship Program for Diverse Producers
At a glance
Deadline | Deadline extended to July 4, 2023 due to the long weekend.
|
Spots available | |
Duration of placement | 20 weeks @ 40 hrs/week. Must be completed by March 15, 2024. |
Mentee stipend | $16,000 (minimum) $12,000 from the program $4,000 from the mentor company |
Elibility criteria | Open to CMPA member companies that are owned and operated by members of equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, and applying with mentee candidates from equity-seeking and sovereignty -seeking groups |
The CMPA is an inclusive organization that is committed to achieving greater diversity and representation from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, including, but not limited to, Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, persons from the broad spectrum of sexes, gender expressions and sexual orientations, persons with disabilities and intersectional candidates belonging to multiple communities. As such, we strive to develop mentorship and training opportunities that help growing the talent base of equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups. The focus of this initiative is to increase the diversity among producers and foster inclusivity in the screen-based production industry. It will offer CMPA members the opportunity to work with producers who reflect Canada’s diverse makeup. The program is open to CMPA member companies in good standing that are owned and operated by members of equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups applying with mentee candidates from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups that have a demonstrated interest in working in production with the ultimate goal of becoming a producer. Activities can take place during any stage of production, including (but not limited to) research, development, on-set and office production, business affairs, marketing and promotion.
Mentee eligibility
- Open to candidates who self-identify as being a member of one or more equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, or are intersectional candidates
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or person on whom refugee status has been conferred
- Must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
- Cannot be an employee or family member of the mentor company
- Must be co-applying with a mentor company. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair candidates with limited or no access to suitable mentor companies, with its qualifying members. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also create a mentee profile that will be accessible to mentor companies seeking a candidate. Find out more here.
Mentor company eligibility
- Must be a member of the CMPA, and owned and operated by members of equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavour to pair mentor companies with suitable candidates. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also post a mentorship opportunity that will be accessible to mentees seeking a mentor. Find out more here.
- Must contribute a minimum of $4,000 toward the trainee stipend
- A mentor applicant cannot be an employer or family member of the mentee with whom they are submitting a joint application
Selection process
A selection panel will award placements. Decisions will be based on the criteria set out for both the mentor and the mentee. The panel will be responsible for evaluating applications on their overall merit and the selection panel’s decisions on the awarded placements will be final. Given the high number of applications and the limited resources available, some deserving applications may not be successful. All applications will be assessed against the program’s goal to create meaningful placements that will ultimately help support emerging and mid-level producers’ efforts in developing their knowledge of and experience in the screen-based media production industry. As such, the selection panel may consider a number of factors in order to make their decisions on applications. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the:
- Viability of the mentor-mentee relationship (e.g., shared goals and objectives; post-placement employment opportunities with the mentor company; financial contribution to the mentee’s stipend; demonstrated commitment to sharing expertise, and ability and experience in training)
- Clear objectives and skills development goals
- Strength of the proposed work plan (e.g., mentee’s job description; diversity of training; mentor supervision) vs. proposed mentee’s related education, professional goals, and work or volunteer experience
- Demonstrated commitment to screen-based media production industry
Historically, CMPA mentorship programs have been oversubscribed; as such some worthy applications may not be successful.
Payment of funds
Each trainee receives a minimum of $16,000 for their placement. The program contributes $12,000, while the mentor company must contribute a minimum of $4,000. Upon selection each mentor company must sign a contract with the CMPA and the mentee, outlining the requirements of the program, including reporting procedures and how funds will be dispersed. Each financial award is to be solely applied to the mentee’s stipend. The CMPA contribution will be disbursed in three instalments. Each instalment will be given to the mentor upon submission of an invoice for the amount and the required supporting documentation (invoices, mid-term and final reports, final questionnaires and proof of payment for the mentee’s stipend).
Application process
We only accept applications via our online application portal. Should you require assistance with your application, please contact us.
Please note that applicants will be required to upload the following documents during the process:
Mentees:
- Resumé
- Letter of intent
- Two (2) letters of reference (download templ ate)
Mentors:
- Letter of intent
- Placement work plan (to be completed online)
Apply →
CLOSED - CMPA Production Mentorship Program
CMPA Production Mentorship Program
At a glance
Deadline | Deadline extended to July 4, 2023 due to the long weekend. |
Spots available | 17
Minimum 6 dedicated to mentee applicants from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups |
Duration of placement | 9 placements – 20 weeks @ 40 hrs/week.
8 placements – 40 weeks @ 40 hrs/week 20-week placements must be completed by March 15, 2024. 40-week placements must be completed no later than May 31, 2024. |
Mentee stipend | 20-week placements:
$16,000 (minimum) 40-week placements: $32,000 (minimum) $20,000 from the CMPA |
This program will offer CMPA members the opportunity to work with emerging and mid-level producers. The focus of the initiative is to provide general producer training to those who are starting out their careers, have limited experience in the screen-based media production industry or are transitioning into it from a different field. The program is open to all CMPA member companies in good standing and mentee candidates who have a demonstrated interest in working in production with the ultimate goal of becoming a producer. Activities can take place during any stage of production and include activities including but not limited to research, development, on-set and office production, business affairs, marketing and promotion.
The CMPA is an inclusive organization that is committed to achieving greater diversity and representation from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, including, but not limited to, Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, persons from the broad spectrum of sexes, gender expressions and sexual orientations, and persons with disabilities. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from equity-seeking and sovereignty-seeking groups, or persons with intersectional identities.
A minimum of 35% of all mentorship placements will be reserved for mentees from equity-seeking, sovereignty-seeking, or intersectional groups.
Mentee eligibility
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person on whom refugee status has been conferred
- Must be legally entitled to work according to the relevant provincial/territorial legislation and regulations
- Cannot be an employee or family member of the mentor company
- Must be co-applying with a mentor company. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavor to pair candidates with limited or no access to suitable mentor companies, with its qualifying members. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also create a mentee profile that will be accessible to mentor companies seeking a candidate. Find out more here.
Mentor company eligibility
- Must be a member of the CMPA
- Must be co-applying with a mentee candidate. The CMPA will, on a case-by-case basis, endeavor to pair mentor companies with suitable candidates. This does not guarantee that an application will be successful given the limited number of spots available. You may also post a mentorship opportunity that will be accessible to mentees seeking a mentor. Find out more here.
- Must contribute a minimum of $8,000/$12,000 toward the mentee stipend
- A mentor applicant cannot be an employer or family member of the mentee with whom they are submitting a joint application
Selection process
A selection panel will award placements. Decisions will be based on the criteria set out for both the mentor and the mentee. The panel will be responsible for evaluating applications on their overall merit and the selection panel’s decisions on the awarded placements will be final. All applications will be assessed against the program’s goal to create meaningful placements that will ultimately help support emerging and mid-level producers’ efforts in developing their knowledge of and experience in the screen-based media production industry. As such, the selection panel may consider a number of factors in order to make their decisions on applications. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the:
- Viability of the mentor-mentee relationship (e.g., shared goals and objectives; post-placement employment opportunities with the mentor company; financial contribution to the mentee’s stipend; demonstrated commitment to sharing expertise, and ability and experience in training)
- Clear objectives and skills development goals
- Strength of the proposed work plan (e.g., trainee’s job description; diversity of training; mentor supervision) vs. proposed trainee’s related education, professional goals, and work or volunteer experience
- Demonstrated commitment to screen-based media production industry
Historically, CMPA mentorship programs have been oversubscribed; as such some worthy applications may not be successful.
Payment of funds
Each mentee receives a minimum of $16,000/$32,000 for their placement. The program contributes $8,000, while the mentor company must contribute a minimum of $8,000/$16,000. Upon selection each mentor company must sign a contract with the CMPA and the mentee, outlining the requirements of the program, including reporting procedures and how funds will be dispersed. Each financial award is to be solely applied to the mentee’s stipend. The CMPA contribution will be disbursed in three instalments. Each instalment will be given to the mentor upon submission of an invoice for the amount and the required supporting documentation (invoices, mid-term and final reports, final questionnaires and proof of payment for the mentee’s stipend).
Application process
We only accept applications via our online application portal. Should you require assistance with your application, please contact us.
Please note that applicants will be required to upload the following documents during the process:
Mentees:
- Resumé
- Letter of intent
- Two (2) letters of reference (download template)
Mentors:
- Letter of intent
- Placement work plan (to be completed online)
Apply →
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Interested in partnering with the CMPA?
If you’d like to be involved in launching the careers of the next generation of media professionals, consider partnering with us to offer a branded mentorship program.
For more about partnership opportunities and benefits, contact:
Sarolta Csete
Director, Development & Corporate Affairs
1-613-688-0952 / 1-800-656-7440 ext. 338
sarolta.csete@cmpa.ca
Yes, intern candidates must find a CMPA member company and submit a joint application. Start your research with our member directory. Once you’ve found a company you’d like to approach, send them a resumé and offer to volunteer. After you’ve made a connection and the company has agreed to take you on for the duration of the placement, submit a joint application for one of our programs.
You may also create a public mentee profile that potential mentor companies can browse. Find out more here.
Feel free to contact us at 1-800-656-7440 ext. 339 for more assistance.
If you’re a permanent resident or a protected person within the meaning of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, you’re eligible for our programs.
Please check the individual program information for eligibility criteria, including age.
Yes, if you are eligible, but you cannot participate in more than one program at a time. You can only receive one CMPA grant per fiscal year.
If you’re selected for placement, you’ll be notified by email approximately six to eight weeks after the application deadline. If your application is not successful, you’ll be notified by email within two months after the application deadline.
Yes. The mentor company and the mentee may agree to make deductions at source. (For most programs, we offer the option to take on the mentee on a contract or hire them as an employee.)
You are considered unemployed if you are not being paid for any activities you are performing. If you’re working on a term or contract job that ends before the proposed placement begins and you have no job prospects when you apply, you may also be considered unemployed.
You are considered underemployed if you’re working part-time in your field of expertise or study, or you’re working full-time or part-time in an area not related to your field of expertise or study.
You must be a CMPA member to apply to be a mentor.
Please visit our Membership section for more information and to apply for CMPA membership.
Please check the individual program information to learn the mentor company’s minimum financial contribution. Mentors can—and are encouraged to—offer a higher contribution than the minimum.
Yes, you must issue a T4 or T4A to your mentee.
You may not apply unmatched.
You can however create a posting for a mentorship opportunity which potential candidates can browse and get in contact with you directly. Find out more here.
If you need further assistance to help you find a mentee to co-apply with—contact us at 1-800-656-7440 ext. 339 for more information.