The Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) has launched the Indigenous Screen Foundation (ISF), a new charitable organization dedicated to delivering training and education in screen-based storytelling for Indigenous youth.

The inaugural Youth Screen-based Training and Education Program will provide grants to charitable and non-profit organizations, and educational institutions to deliver Indigenous-led creative, technical and professional training and education, with a focus on Indigenous youth under the age of 35.

The foundation – which will operate as a sister organization to the ISO and share resources – is launching with a five-year, $11.4M commitment from Mastercard Foundation with applications set to open in January. It builds on an existing partnership with the Mastercard Foundation EleV Program, which aims to transform education and employment in service of Indigenous youth. ISF plans to continue to grow the fund through new philanthropic partnerships.

ISO and ISF CEO Kerry Swanson said the partnership has been three years in development, saying that as Indigenous storytelling gains momentum, it’s vital to invest in the next generation of talent.

“We are thrilled to launch the new Foundation with a partner who is aligned in our mission to create meaningful livelihoods and creative opportunities for Indigenous youth in screen-based storytelling,” said Swanson, in an announcement.

“Creative industries including film and storytelling are growth sectors of importance and interest to Indigenous youth and their communities,” added Jennifer Brennan, Senior Director, Canada Programs at the Mastercard Foundation. “Through this partnership, the Indigenous Screen Foundation will expand opportunities for Indigenous youth to directly engage and build careers in this sector.”