Opportunity for Indigenous Screenwriters: The Rewrite Lab
Are you an Indigenous writer developing a television series? The Indigenous Screen Office (ISO), in partnership with Paramount Canada, is accepting applications for The Rewrite Lab, an advanced script development opportunity for Indigenous screenwriters across Canada.
Four writers will be selected to receive dedicated professional support as they strengthen an existing television series project and prepare it for potential financing, production, and future marketplace opportunities.
Applications are open now and close August 21, 2026.
What is The Rewrite Lab?
The Rewrite Lab is designed for Indigenous screenwriters who have already developed a television series project and are ready to take their script through an intensive rewrite or polishing process.
Rather than starting a new project from scratch, participants will work on strengthening an existing project with support from experienced story editors, mentors, industry advisors, and fellow Indigenous creatives.
Throughout the initiative, participants will receive:
Dedicated story editor support
Two craft-focused workshops with established industry experts
One-on-one mentorship
Strategic feedback from industry advisors
Cohort discussions and peer learning
A participant polish fee
The program will run from approximately December 2026 through March 2027.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
Be 18 years of age or older
Be First Nations, Inuit, or Métis and reside in Canada
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise legally entitled to work in Canada
Be able to receive payment through a Canadian financial institution
Demonstrate a professional commitment to screenwriting and television storytelling
Applicants may be required to demonstrate Indigenous citizenship, membership, community connection, or kinship in accordance with ISO policies.
What Kind of Projects Are Eligible?
The Rewrite Lab is specifically for television series projects that have moved beyond the earliest stages of development.
Eligible projects should already have a series bible and at least one script and be ready for an intensive rewrite or polish.
Eligible formats include drama, comedy, children's and youth programming, animation, limited series, anthology series, and hybrid formats.
Projects must also be Indigenous-led, with Indigenous ownership, control, and creative leadership remaining in place.
Feature films and projects already in active production are not eligible.
What Do You Need to Apply?
Applicants will be asked to provide materials including a current résumé or CV, professional biography, series overview, project synopsis, current script or sample material, project history, series bible or outline where applicable, and a statement explaining their goals for the rewrite.
The statement should explain why the project is ready for this stage, what challenges the writer hopes to address, and what they hope to accomplish through participation in The Rewrite Lab.
Important Dates
Applications Open: July 14, 2026
Application Deadline: August 21, 2026
Assessment & Selection: August through late October 2026
Participant Notification: Late October 2026
Rewrite Lab: December 2026 – March 2027
Only four writers will be selected for this opportunity, so interested community members are encouraged to review the full eligibility requirements and begin preparing their application materials early.
A Great Opportunity to Share
Whether you're already developing a television project or know an Indigenous writer who is, please help us spread the word about this opportunity.
The Rewrite Lab offers Indigenous storytellers a chance to strengthen their craft while maintaining the creative voice and cultural integrity that make their stories unique.
Applications close August 21, 2026.