Inclusivity, Diversity, Racial Equity Award in Media (iDREAM), a national non-profit organization dedicated to racial equality in media, has launched the iDream Awards. Applications for the inaugural prize, which will celebrate the contributions of underrepresented and BIPOC creators and innovators across five categories – Art, Entrepreneurship, Film, Music, and Sport – are now open.

Winners in each category will receive $1 million in donated advertising space including digital, broadcast, out-of-home and print. The award will also include media exposure, strategic consulting, and partnerships with industry leaders to help maximize their impact and reach.

Media is being donated by Adapt Media, UB Media, Zoom, Allvision, Rogers, Vendo Media, APTN, Blue Ant Media, Corus Entertainment, Pelmorex Entertainment, Lamar, Pattison Outdoor, Stingray Media, Captivate, Grassroots, Stingray, Rec Media, Speedy Transport, and George Brown College.

“We are beyond excited to open submissions to the first ever iDREAM Awards applications,” said Jamie Thompson, founder of iDREAM. “These awards are not just about recognizing talent, but about providing the platforms, resources, and opportunities that will empower underrepresented creators to thrive. We’re committed to ensuring that these five award recipients will have the visibility and support they need to continue their transformative work.”

The applications will be judged by a group of diverse media and entertainment personalities, including recently announced president of WPP Canada, Kevin Johnson, award-winning actress Amanda Brugel, and Dahabo Ahmed-Omer, CEO at The BlackNorth Initiative.