About
The Melissa Crozier Writers Bursary is an initiative designed to support emerging screenwriters in the Canadian screen industry.
Offered annually over three years (now in it's second year), this bursary will award one recipient with a full scholarship to participate in Second Draft: Screenwriting for TV Series, a four-day professional development program from WIFT+ Toronto, that will take place in October, 2026. This program is presented by Ontario Creates.
In addition to full tuition for the program, the bursary includes:
- A $500 honorarium
- Two tickets to the 2027 WIFT+ Toronto Reception@TIFF
- A one-year WIFT+ Toronto membership
*WIFT+ Toronto will facilitate the delivery of all prizes.
Why a Writers Bursary?
This bursary is established in memory of Melissa Crozier, founder of Techno Medic Ltd.
Melissa’s love for film, especially screenwriting, drew her into the industry and inspired the creation of Techno Medic. Today, Techno Medic is proudly run by Melissa’s family, who have continued the business in her memory, and have established this bursary to support and uplift the next generation of screenwriters.
“We are honoured to offer the Melissa Crozier Writers Bursary in memory of our beloved daughter and sister. Melissa had a deep passion for film and storytelling, and this bursary is a meaningful way for us to support emerging writers while celebrating the legacy she left behind.”
— The Crozier Family
“The success of the bursary’s first year reinforces the importance of investing in emerging screenwriters. As we launch the second Melissa Crozier Writer’s Bursary, we’re proud to continue supporting the next generation of talent while honouring Melissa’s legacy and her enduring belief in the power of storytelling.”
Application Information and Process
Applications for the bursary open on Monday, July 20, 2026, and close on Sunday, September 13, 2026 at 11:59 pm.
The recipient of the Melissa Crozier Writers Bursary will be contacted by September 28, 2026.
All applications will be reviewed by members of the WIFT+ Toronto Programming Advisory Committee.
Interested applicants must submit the following:
- A CV/Resume (max 2 pages)
- A short Biography (max 75 words)
- A Letter of Intent (max 2 pages) explaining why taking this course is important to you and why this is the right time in your career to participate in the program, as well as outlining the access barriers (e.g. financial, etc.) that you are currently facing.
Please direct any questions regarding applications to the Melissa Crozier Writers Bursary to Jody Anderson, Program and Special Events Coordinator, by email at janderson@wift.com.
About the Foundation for WIFT+ Toronto
The Foundation for WIFT+ Toronto raises funds to enable the organization to carry out its mission of building and advancing the careers of WIFT+ Toronto members by providing memberships, professional development, peer support, mentorship, and networking opportunities. We provide training to the industry in the greater Toronto area to enhance the skills of members of the Canadian screen-based media industry. We are proud to be a leader in building an equitable, inclusive, and accessible space where individuals can safely learn and grow their careers. Donations are always appreciated.
If you are interested in supporting WIFT+ Toronto via the creation of a bursary, please contact Karen Bruce, Executive Director, by email at kbruce@wift.com.
About Techno Medic Ltd.
Techno Medic Ltd. is an organization founded by Melissa Crozier that provides professional on-set medics, water rescue teams, lifeguards, and firefighters to film productions and the broader entertainment industry.
In addition, Techno Medic Ltd. offers Rapid Antigen COVID testing, COVID PAs, Coordinators, along with the medical supplies needed throughout the production period.
Techno Medic has worked with companies that include; Radke, Soft Citizen, Alfredo Productions, Skin and Bones, Merchant, EP Partners, Scouts Honour, Suveena, Zero Point Zero, and Disney.