The National Screen Institute and BIPOC TV & Film, in partnership with The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University, are proud to present an eight-module business course designed for BIPOC film and TV industry professionals and BIPOC-owned production companies seeking entrepreneurial development.

The Elevate Learning Modules, led by entertainment law expert Steve Levitan, focus on executive-level education in content production and business, combining in-depth knowledge with practical insights in people management, entertainment law, business strategy, financing and marketing.

You will learn through experience-based instruction, covering everything from copyright law to distribution and marketing principles, all aimed at balancing creative energy with sustainable business outcomes. The curriculum, enriched by guest speakers, workshops and real-world examples, will equip you with a broad foundational knowledge.

Registration

Review the module breakdown below and use our online form to register now and complete your payment of $1,000.

Course overview

Spanning two days each, the four modules are crafted to build upon one another, offering a comprehensive learning experience to advance your understanding and skills in critical business areas. With a total cost of $1,000 for all four modules, this non-refundable rate ensures commitment and fosters an environment of meaningful, focused learning. Each module is designed to complement the previous, enhancing the overall impact of the course. Space is limited to just 16 spots, to allow for an intimate learning environment.

Why choose this course?

• Expert-led sessions: Learn from industry leaders with real-world experience
• Broad-based educational content: Covering everything from entertainment law essentials to advanced marketing strategies.
• Exclusive networking: Connect with peers and professionals in a dynamic, hybrid supportive community.

Module breakdown

Note that all sessions are hybrid unless otherwise noted. You can attend virtually or in person at The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University’s Innovation Hub in downtown Toronto.

March 25 and 26, 2024

• Module 1: People Management & Entertainment Law

Dive into the essentials of contracts, business law, and copyright, exploring how these legal frameworks underpin the entertainment industry. Understand the dynamics of licensing, monetization and the implications of AI on creative content.

April 18 and 19, 2024

• Module 2: Business Strategy, Pitching and Negotiating

Learn ideation and pitching strategies to effectively communicate your vision. Build marketable inventories and navigate development deals to avoid common pitfalls, setting a solid foundation for your projects.

June 6 and 7, 2024

• Module 3: Financing

Uncover the nuances of financing, from securing grants and equity to managing budgets and balancing financing. Learn strategies for maximizing market value and managing risks, ensuring your projects are both financially viable and profitable.

July 18 and 19, 2024

• Module 4: Marketing & Business Strategy

Develop a robust business plan, understand the importance of building a personal and business profile, and master the art of strategic relationships. Dive into the specifics of advertising, promotion and product marketing to ensure your projects stand out in a crowded market.

Due to the proprietary nature of the training content, sessions will not be recorded.

Register now to start your journey of learning, growth and professional development.

Further enquiries

If you have any questions, please contact Elevate program managers Danielle Audette, danielle [dot] y [dot] m [dot] audette [at] nsi-canada [dot] ca and Jessica Gibson, jessica [dot] gibson [at] nsi-canada [dot] ca.

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Elevate is presented by Paramount+ in Canada, BIPOC TV & Film and the National Screen Institute, with program partners Canada Media Fund (CMF), Telefilm Canada, Ontario Creates, academic partner The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University. National Screen Institute core funders are Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism and the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council.

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About BIPOC TV & Film

Founded in 2012 as a grassroots movement and community-building initiative, BIPOC TV & Film has evolved into a national not-for-profit organization building power and opportunities for Black, Indigenous and Racialized people in Canada. Through investments in career development training, mentorship, wellness support and community engagement initiatives, we ensure that BIPOC media professionals have the necessary resources, access, and opportunities to fully participate in the film and television industry—at all levels in front of and behind the camera. In 2020, the organization launched HireBIPOC, a workforce development initiative to facilitate connections between employers and above and below-the-line crew and creative professionals in Canada.

About the National Screen Institute

Propelled by a visionary network of donors, private and public organizations, board members and staff, the National Screen Institute supports creators from across Canada to tell unforgettable stories. Through industry-informed training and mentoring in film and television, students and alumni find their voice and place on the global stage, inspiring us to shape a better world.

The National Screen Institute is committed to training participants from a diverse community of voices including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, women, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning and two-spirit (LGBTQ2S+), people with disabilities, those outside large urban centres, those from regional and remote areas and various religious groups.