2024 DOC ATLANTIC BREAKTHROUGH PROGRAM

The DOC Atlantic Breakthrough Program, led by Lunenburg Doc Fest, will help emerging talent from the Indigenous, Black and/or People of Colour communities develop documentary projects through mentorship, training, and introductions to key decision-makers in the film industry.

Comprehensive training will help four selected media creators from the Atlantic provinces who identify as IBPOC to develop, market and produce their documentary project over a 12-month period (June 2024 – May 2025). They will also have full access to the Dock Market at the 11th Lunenburg Doc Fest (September 18-22, 2024) and the Hot Docs Forum at Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival (May 2025). 

Breakthrough will begin with a six-week online workshop series in June and July 2024. Sessions will guide participants through authentic storytelling techniques. The Program will further provide practical industry knowledge through workshops covering film financing, producing, and budgeting, alongside business and legal affairs. One-to-one project feedback sessions with an internationally renowned pitch coach will follow, as will group and one-on-one mentorship from an acclaimed Canadian documentarian. 

All Atlantic Canadian residents who identify as IBPOC and are available and motivated to advance their documentary project are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is June 3, 2024. Selected applicants will be notified by June 11, 2024.

Applications are now open. To apply, please fill out all required fields on this online application form. 

The DOC Atlantic Breakthrough Program is presented in association with the Documentary Organization of Canada, DOC Atlantic, Telefilm Canada, Lunenburg Doc Fest, and others.