Questions about our program, NSI Series Incubator? Watch our Q&A webinar recapping what to expect from the program and how to apply.
The webinar was hosted by program manager, Jessica Gibson and features alumni from the 2021-23 edition of NSI Series Incubator. The group discuss what to expect from the program and answer questions from potential applicants. The webinar was hosted on June 15, 2023.
NSI Series Incubator is a 12-month, in-depth training program for four producer / writer teams from underrepresented communities to develop a scripted series with support and guidance from industry professionals. In this four-phased, in-person and online program, participants will engage in workshops, presentations and masterclasses to further skills in their field and receive support through targeted, one-on-one mentorship.
Thank you to the attendees who submitted questions during our webinar. Please see the answers below:
How much experience do you need to qualify as a producer? What kind of experience is necessary?
This program is open to producers and writers with mid-level experience. We ask producers and writers to include all their completed screen credit hours as a producer, writer or ‘other’ relevent roles when considering for participation.
Is the program completely online, and is it possible to have daytime job while participanting?
The program is about 30 hours per week during training and time needs to be set aside in between training phases to allow for homework and the production of the proof of concept. Phase one is in-person in Winnipeg for the producers and writers. Phase three is in-person in Winnipeg for the directors. Please refer to the dates in the program description online for when these phases occur.
Does being employed by a production company hinder your chances at being chosen?
No.
Can you apply with a completed pilot or is this just for shows in very early development (idea and pitch pages)?
Yes, you can apply with a completed pilot. Please be prepared to rework it if you are selected for the program.
What did the self-pitching training look like? Was there also training / practice for pitching the show during the program?
Carole Kirschner worked with participants on their pitches, and they had a chance to practice with eachother. At the end of the program, participants pitched to development executives.
What if you have no screen credits and have just produced a play / opera, and live cabaret style shows?
This training is for producers and writers with mid-level experience. We want our participants to come with a base level of experience to ensure they will be able to pick up where our training starts. If you believe you have the equivalent experience needed to participante in the program, please provide an additional letter with your application explaining why you are ready for this training.
How much did the producer and writer tracks overlap? Were there sessions that both attended, and some that were separate?
Some sessions are scheduleld for writers and producers to attend together and some are scheduled separately. There were opportunities for one cohort to audit the other’s sessions if time allowed as well.
Do you qualify as a producer if you don’t have film producing experience, but you have produced other works such as an opera, concert, etc.?
This training is for producers and writers with mid-level experience. We want our participants to come with a base level of experience to ensure they will be able to pick up where our training starts. If you believe you have the equivalent experience needed to participante in the program, please provide an additional letter with your application explaining why you are ready for this training.
How are the directors selected? And can aspiring directors apply for the training?
Directors are hired by the producer in phase two of the program. Directors are expected to have the same level of experience as the producers and writers to make the most of their training opportunity.
The writer I will be submitting with got some devleopment funding from CMF to develop a preliminary pitch. Is that okay?
Yes, that is fine.
Are projects with two co-writers plus a producer eligible?
This program is designed for one producer, one writer and one director with separate individuals occupying each role. We want the participants applying in each role to be passionate about that position and want to pursue that role as a career.
Are there any overlooked aspects of the application that you suggest focusing on to best communicate one’s eligibility for the program?
There is not one overlooked aspect of the application. I would encourage applicants to read the gudelines and FAQ’s thoroughly before submitting their application, specifically the “What do I need to apply” section.
My series is original. Does the application ask questions about IP control?
The appliction is separated into producer, writer and project sections. In the project section you are asked if the project is original, based on a real person or event or based on previous works. If you have a project based on a real person or event or on previous works, you will be asked to provide proof that you have the right to make the project.
I have been working as a producer for a few years and have focused largely on documentary (writing / producing / directing) but want to submit myself as the writer on the team. With only a few scripted works such as short films, do you think there is space for someone who is transitioning from documentary to scripted?
This training is for producers and writers with mid-level experience. We want our participants to come with a base level of experience to ensure they will be able to pick up where our training starts. If you believe you have the equivalent experience needed to participante in the program, please provide an additional letter with your application explaining why you are ready for this training.
Since many creatives are often writers and producers, can you apply multiple years: say if you were selected as producer this year, and then say next year you have a project you want to appy for as writer?
You can apply in subsequent years in a different role.
If an individual is equally interested in both the writing and producing programs, do you suggest going with the one that has more credits / experience?
Irrespective of credits, we want the participants applying in each role to be passionate about that position and want to pursue that role as a career. If you are equally interested in both fields, applying in a field where you have the requested level of experience would be advantageous.
My writer is submitting something from a specific cultural / personal experience: are they allowed some directorial influence even if he’s not the lead director?
It’s important that each position has the autonomy to explore their role but we understand that creating a TV series is a collaborative process.
If you’re part of another National Screen Institute program, can you apply to this with another project?
The guidelines state that a participant may not be in any other training program that would conflict with your ability to commit to the NSI Series Incubator program. You must demonstrate that there will be no conflict of commitments if you are currently enrolled in any other program.
I don’t have a sizzle for one of my back-up ideas, is that okay?
