Indigenous Screen Office

The Indigenous Screen Office, also known as ISO, is a Canadian organization established to support and advance Indigenous screen storytelling across film, television, and digital media. The organization serves as a critical bridge between Indigenous creators and the broader Canadian and international screen industries, providing resources that address the unique challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous storytellers. ISO was created in response to the recognized need for a dedicated body that could advocate for Indigenous perspectives in an industry that has historically marginalized Indigenous voices and relied on non-Indigenous creators to tell Indigenous stories. The organization operates with a mandate that centers Indigenous sovereignty over Indigenous narratives, ensuring that Indigenous communities maintain creative control over how their stories are told and by whom.

ISO provides direct funding to Indigenous screen creators through various programs that support projects at different stages of development, from early concept through production and distribution. These funding programs are designed with an understanding of the specific barriers Indigenous creators face in accessing traditional industry financing, including systemic biases in evaluation processes and the industry's historical preference for stories and storytelling approaches that center non-Indigenous perspectives. The organization's funding criteria prioritize authentic Indigenous storytelling, cultural integrity, and community benefit, reflecting values that may not be adequately addressed by mainstream funding bodies. ISO has become one of the most important sources of financial support for Indigenous screen projects in Canada, helping to build a pipeline of Indigenous content that enriches the broader media landscape.

Mentorship is a core component of ISO's mission, connecting emerging Indigenous creators with experienced industry professionals who can provide guidance on navigating the complex realities of building a career in screen media. The mentorship programs recognize that Indigenous creators may face additional barriers to entry including geographic isolation from production centers, limited access to industry networks, and the challenge of maintaining cultural practices while participating in an industry that operates on non-Indigenous schedules and value systems. ISO mentors include both Indigenous and non-Indigenous industry veterans, providing mentees with diverse perspectives and broad networks of support. These mentorship relationships often extend well beyond formal program timelines, creating lasting professional connections that continue to benefit participants throughout their careers.

The professional development programs offered by ISO include workshops, labs, and training intensives that address the technical, creative, and business skills needed to succeed in the screen industries. These programs are designed to be culturally responsive, incorporating Indigenous pedagogical approaches that honor different ways of learning and knowing alongside the practical industry skills that participants need to develop. ISO also facilitates networking opportunities that connect Indigenous creators with each other, building a supportive community that can share resources, collaborate on projects, and advocate collectively for Indigenous representation in the screen sector. The organization hosts and participates in industry events, market activities, and international festivals, raising the profile of Indigenous screen content and creating export opportunities for Indigenous creators.

ISO works closely with other Canadian screen industry organizations, including Telefilm Canada, the Canada Media Fund, the National Film Board, and provincial funding agencies, to advocate for increased support for Indigenous content and to ensure that mainstream funding and distribution channels are accessible and welcoming to Indigenous creators. The organization also engages internationally, building relationships with Indigenous screen organizations in Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Scandinavia to share best practices and create opportunities for cross-border collaboration and co-production. This international dimension reflects the global nature of the Indigenous screen movement and the shared challenges facing Indigenous storytellers worldwide. ISO's advocacy work has contributed to meaningful policy changes within Canadian screen institutions, including the establishment of dedicated Indigenous funding streams and the adoption of Indigenous-led evaluation processes for projects involving Indigenous content.

ISO's programs and services are available at no cost to Indigenous screen creators, with the organization's operations funded through government grants, industry partnerships, and philanthropic support. The funding programs actually provide financial resources to recipients rather than charging for access, making ISO a source of income rather than an expense for the Indigenous creators it serves. Mentorship and professional development programs are offered without fees to participants, with ISO covering the costs of instruction, materials, and in some cases travel and accommodation for participants from remote communities. There are no membership fees, application fees, or subscription costs associated with engaging with ISO's resources and programs. This fully funded model ensures that financial barriers do not prevent any Indigenous creator from accessing the support they need to develop their screen careers. Compared to industry programs that charge participation fees or require investment from participants, ISO's approach recognizes and addresses the economic disparities that disproportionately affect Indigenous communities.

ISO is an indispensable resource for Indigenous screen creators in Canada who want to develop their storytelling practice, access funding for their projects, and connect with a supportive community of fellow Indigenous media makers. Emerging Indigenous creators should explore ISO's mentorship and professional development programs as a first step in building their screen careers, as these programs provide both the practical skills and industry connections needed to launch successfully. Established Indigenous creators should consider ISO's funding programs for projects at any stage of development, as the organization's evaluation processes are designed to understand and value Indigenous storytelling approaches. Non-Indigenous industry professionals who want to support Indigenous screen content should engage with ISO to learn about authentic collaboration practices and funding models that respect Indigenous creative sovereignty. The organization is most impactful when it is supported by a vibrant and engaged community of Indigenous creators who participate in its programs, contribute their expertise, and advocate for the organization's mission.

Visit the ISO website to review current funding program deadlines and eligibility requirements, as application windows vary throughout the year and planning ahead ensures you can prepare the strongest possible submission. Sign up for the ISO newsletter and follow the organization on social media to stay informed about mentorship opportunities, professional development workshops, and industry events where you can connect with other Indigenous creators. If you are an emerging creator, prioritize applying for mentorship programs, as the relationships and knowledge gained through mentorship often prove more valuable in the long run than individual project funding. Prepare a portfolio of your creative work before approaching ISO, as having a clear body of work and a specific project in development strengthens your applications and demonstrates your commitment to screen storytelling. Connect with your local Indigenous arts community and regional screen organizations, as ISO often works in partnership with local bodies and your community connections can inform and strengthen your engagement with the national organization. Attend industry events where ISO has a presence, as in-person connections with ISO staff and other Indigenous creators can lead to collaboration opportunities and deepen your integration into the Indigenous screen community.