Jim Burt Screenwriting Prize

This award was created in 2002 to continue the exceptional work of the late Jim Burt in recognizing and nurturing screenwriting talent. In a 20-year career at the CBC, Jim’s championing of Canadian screenwriters and their stories resulted in the production of some 75 long-form dramas, including Big Bear, The Boys of St. Vincent, Little Criminals, and Million Dollar Babies. These productions met with national and international acclaim and embodied excellence in writing.

The winning screenplay is determined by a jury, which selects the best unproduced long-form script. The total prize is worth $5,000 - a $3,000 cash prize, and $2,000 for an experienced story editor (approved by the jury) to further develop the winner’s script.

Past recipients of the Jim Burt Screenwriting Prize are Adrian Morphy (2023), Travis McDonald (2021), Pat Holden (2019), Amir Kahnamouee (2019), Daniel Whidden (2017), Adam Garnet Jones (2013), Denise Blinn (2011), Riley Adams (2009), Tony Elliott (2008), Ryan Redford (2007), Jason Hreno (2006), Andrea Gutsche (2005), Sherry White (2004), Gordon Pengilly (2003), and Aubrey Nealon (2002).