Mentorship Programs for New Generation Screenwriters in Canada
Quilltowers continues to share tips and guides that leads to a successful film writing career in different film industries in the world. In our previous post, we shared with you upcoming film festivals that Filipino screenwriters can attend for networking, learning and for fun.
Screenwriting in Canada is no longer confined to a handful of cities or a narrow definition of storytelling. With the rise of streaming platforms, regional production incentives, and diverse voices demanding – and earning – attention, the stage has expanded. However, while opportunities have multiplied, the path remains complex for new generation screenwriters.
One of the most effective ways to bridge the gap between raw talent and professional success is through a judicious use of mentorship. Unlike traditional education, mentorship is personal. It is a relationship built on experience, guidance, and access. For screenwriters navigating the Canadian industry which is influenced by cultural policy, complex funding systems, and international collaborative storytelling, mentorship can be the key that unlocks success, potential and relationship that can be leveraged.
Mentorship with experienced screenwriters offer honest feedback on scripts and pitches, a lens into industry expectations and standards, and guidance through grant applications, networking and co-productions.
Top Mentorship Programs for Screenwriters in Canada
While mentors can be met in places such as film festivals, conventions and through mutual interests, there are also mentorship programs that have been designed for Canadian screenwriters to support the new generation of writers.
- CFC Bell Media Prime Time TV Program: Run by the Canadian Film Centre, the program pairs emerging television writers with top Canadian showrunners and producers. Over five months, writers develop an original series pilot, hone their voice, and pitch directly to networks. Graduates often land writing rooms and development deals soon after. The mentorship program offers their students mentorship from active showrunners, industry-standard writers’ room training and direct industry access.
- Writers Guild of Canada (WGC)’s Diversity Script of the Month and Mentorship Tracks: The Diversity Script of the Month and Mentorship Tracks is targeted towards underrepresented people and underrepresented scripts. These scripts are offered mentorship by successful writers in the guild.
- NSI’s Totally Television: The National Screen Institute’s flagship program supports writer-producer teams working on original TV series. Over several months, mentors guide participants from concept to pitch-readiness. The program often ends in meetings with broadcasters.
- Banff World Media Festival’s Mentorship & Networking Initiatives: Held annually in Alberta, Banff’s media festival includes structured mentorships, one-on-one pitch meetings, and access to global media executives. It is perfect for writers ready to move from development to deal making.
- Indigenous Screen Office (ISO)’s Story Fund and Mentorship Support: Started for Indigenous screenwriters, the ISO provides critical funding, mentorship, and industry connections. Whether you are developing a film, series, or digital project, ISO’s programs are culturally respectful and deeply empowering. This program therefore is beneficial to writers with themes in indigenous history, contemporary life and challenges.
At Quilltowers, we believe that mentorship is more than an educational tool; it is an investment in the next chapter of Canadian storytelling. Whether you are a screenwriter seeking feedback on a developing script, a producer scouting for original material, or a company looking to shape its message with cinematic precision, mentorship fosters collaboration and collaboration is where great writing begins.
Quilltowers offers discreet, high-quality screenwriting and narrative development services tailored to professionals across Canada and beyond. If you are a new writer seeking professional polish or a client looking for industry-grade storytelling, you can contact us. For you, we are always here.
