This initiative is aimed at supporting underrepresented grassroots talent in the global media and entertainment industry.

Program Overview

Since its inception in 2021, the Avid Learning Collective program has provided sponsorship to 24 community education organizations worldwide. Each organization receives a three-year sponsorship that includes membership in the Avid Learning Partner (ALP) program, software licenses for Avid’s creative tools (Pro Tools, Media Composer, Sibelius), staff training and certification, and course materials and certifications for students.

Selection Process

A committee comprised of Avid employees and members of the ACA Executive Board evaluated each applicant organization. The selection criteria focused on the impact of the organization’s programs and its initiatives to promote diversity, equal access, and inclusion within the media and entertainment industry.

2024 Sponsorship Recipients

• Black Women in Post Production (BWIPP): A UK-based network supporting Black or Black mixed-heritage women and non-binary individuals in post-production. The network focuses on creating opportunities through networking, events, and training.
• Instituto Criar de TV, Cinema e Novas Midias: Based in São Paulo, Brazil, this organization provides free audiovisual and technology training to young people in socially vulnerable situations. Since 2005, over 2,800 individuals have completed their technical and sociocultural training programs.
• The KORP Foundation: Located in Buffalo, NY, the foundation works to remove barriers in education and employment for underserved families, partnering with Villa Maria College to provide resources and opportunities.
• Queens Defenders: A nonprofit in Queens, NY, offering a holistic approach to justice and operating a pilot video production program. The program teaches students audio post and video production workflows in a soon-to-open studio facility.
• South Georgian Bay Media Association (SGBMA): An Ontario, Canada-based collective that supports media and film artists, offering free access to programs for underrecognized students and working with the Saugeen First Nation to ensure barrier-free access to workshops.
• YR Media: Located in Oakland, CA, YR Media provides young creators, primarily from BIPOC and underserved backgrounds, with media education, industry mentorship, paid employment, and holistic support services.

Future Plans

Applications for the Avid Learning Collective 2025 sponsorship will open from November 1st to December 31st, 2024.