One of the least-known resources in Canadian broadcasting regulation is the Broadcasting Participation Fund. It exists to help public interest groups participate meaningfully in CRTC proceedings — and most Canadians have never heard of it.
What Is the BPF?
The Broadcasting Participation Fund is an independent, non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to eligible groups participating in CRTC broadcasting proceedings. The fund was established to address a basic fairness problem: broadcasters and telecom companies have large legal and regulatory affairs teams. Consumer groups and public interest organizations typically do not.
Without some form of financial support, CRTC proceedings risk being dominated by well-resourced industry voices while the public interest goes underrepresented. The BPF helps level that playing field.
What Costs Are Covered?
The BPF can cover a range of costs associated with meaningful participation in a CRTC broadcasting proceeding, including legal counsel and expert consulting fees, research and analysis costs, travel expenses for attending oral hearings, and translation and interpretation services.
The key word is "meaningful." The fund is designed to support substantive participation that contributes to the quality of the proceeding — not to fund general advocacy or awareness campaigns.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility is generally limited to non-profit organizations that represent consumer or public interests. Groups need to demonstrate a track record of public interest advocacy and be participating in an eligible CRTC broadcasting proceeding.
Individual Canadians are not typically eligible for BPF funding, but they can still participate in CRTC proceedings at no cost by filing written interventions. The process for doing so is explained in our intervention guide.
Current Status
The BPF is currently under review by the CRTC, and the availability and terms of funding may change. Before applying, check the BPF website for the most current information on eligibility, timelines, and the application process.
It's worth noting that for telecommunications proceedings (as opposed to broadcasting proceedings), the CRTC has a separate costs regime where participants can apply for cost awards directly from the Commission.
Why This Matters
Public participation in regulatory proceedings isn't just a nice-to-have — it's essential to good regulatory outcomes. The CRTC's decisions affect millions of Canadians, and those decisions are better when they're informed by diverse perspectives.
The BPF is one mechanism for ensuring that consumer voices aren't drowned out by industry resources. If your organization is considering participating in a CRTC broadcasting proceeding, it's worth exploring whether BPF funding could support your participation.
Canadians for Broadcast Accountability monitors broadcaster compliance and helps Canadians navigate the CRTC process. Learn more about what we do or join our email list for updates.