Television Academy Foundation's College Television Awards LA Scholarship

Access to tech and creative industry employment

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

The Television Academy Foundation (TVAF) aims to address the lack of access and opportunities typically available to community college and Cal State students pursuing entertainment careers. Local aspiring students from these institutions face significant barriers breaking into the industry and securing rewarding jobs. Despite recent economic and workforce challenges, the 2024 Otis College Creative Economy report notes that LA area jobs in the Greater Entertainment sector have increased by 12% and wages have grown 70%. LA remains a global hub for the creative economy, and local community college and Cal State students should have equal access to these jobs and benefit from this growth. There is a pressing need to create a new opportunity for students – which we are calling CTA LA – to recognize excellence in locally produced content. With CTA LA, the goal is to create an inclusive, diverse workforce to support LA's economy and foster aspiring creative talent.

To address this lack of access and recognition, TVAF is introducing the CTA LA Scholarship, a pilot initiative designed to celebrate the creative achievements of emerging community college and Cal State storytellers. For years, the Television Academy has recognized professional work through the LA Area Emmy Awards, but there has been no counterpart for college students. The Scholarship will award one (1) $10,000 scholarship to a student production from a community college or Cal State student. In addition, the winning student will also have access to the TVAF alumni network, which includes over 1400 creative professionals.
Eligibility for the CTA LA Scholarship will be open to part-time and full-time LA County community college and Cal State students. Students can apply with projects of any genre, produced in 2025, while enrolled part-time or full-time for recognition at the 2026 CTA ceremony. Prior to the award ceremony, nominees will have the opportunity to attend a private Nominee Screening event hosted by TVAF, where they will showcase their nominated pieces to TVAF board members and the Academy's Board of Governors. Additionally, the winners will have their work featured at the SeriesFest College Television Award Winners Showcase in Denver, CO, with all travel expenses covered through a partnership with SeriesFest. In addition, the winner will be invited to attend the LA Area Emmy Awards, an important networking event.

If successful, the CTA LA Scholarship will lay the groundwork for growing the local footprint and outreach to underrepresented storytellers in Los Angeles County. The transformational program will amplify diverse voices and perspectives, leading to more authentic and inclusive storytelling that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of LA and showcase the diverse, local creative workforce The scholarship will be the beginning of creating a diverse local talent pipeline. It promotes cultural equity, ensuring the industry truly represents the diverse experiences and perspectives of all Angelenos. It challenges traditional power structures and promotes equitable practices, leading to a more vibrant, representative creative landscape. A successful program fosters economic growth and a workforce that authentically reflects the demographics of the region. It aligns with LA County's Cultural Equity & Inclusion Initiative, providing meaningful access to arts and culture for every resident.

To define and measure the success of the CTA LA Scholarship program, we will utilize the following metrics:
Number of applicants: Tracking the volume and diversity of applications received will gauge the program's reach and effectiveness in attracting underrepresented storytellers. Post-event surveys: Evaluating professional development experiences through surveys will provide valuable feedback on the program's impact and areas for improvement.
Digital engagement: Monitoring open rates, click-throughs and social media metrics for the Call for Submissions will measure the program's visibility and outreach effectiveness.
Media coverage: Securing national and local media coverage will amplify the program's impact, celebrate nominees and winners, and inspire future applicants. Long-term impact tracking: Monitoring the career trajectories and achievements of scholarship recipients will assess the program's lasting influence on fostering diverse talent in the entertainment industry.