For Creators
The Dads Initiative is looking for creators who are dads with bold, original ideas for digital shows.
Application Deadline: December 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET
$5,000
in pilot funding Selected creators receive funding to develop and produce an original pilot, with potential for additional investment.The Dads Initiative (TDI) is a new digital media initiative investing in original entertainment created by dads, for audiences who are dads. Through bold storytelling, fresh perspectives, and culturally relevant content, we're building a new generation of shows that entertain, spark connection, and reshape the cultural narrative around fatherhood and manhood.
01Your Pitch
The Dads Initiative is looking for creators who are dads with bold, original ideas for digital shows or content series. We're building a new kind of media platform that uses entertainment and storytelling to reshape the cultural narrative around fatherhood, and celebrate the many dimensions of being a dad.
But we're not looking for traditional parenting content, and that's not what the men we aim to reach are seeking. They just want great, entertaining content, and along the way, we hope to tell stories that inspire them to be great dads, building the world our kids deserve. Think sports, comedy, competition, culture, lifestyle, finance, fitness, the outdoors, investigative storytelling, and everything in between, infused with a connection to fatherhood.
Whether it's a hilarious new series, an unexpected competition, a compelling documentary, or a completely original format, we want ideas that entertain, spark curiosity, build connections, and offer fresh perspectives on the world we're shaping for the next generation.
Selected creators will receive $5,000 in pilot funding to bring their show concepts to life, with the opportunity to develop, produce, and test their ideas as part of TDI's inaugural slate of original programming. Standout pilots may also be considered for additional investment and longer-term development opportunities with TDI.
Application Deadline: December 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET
02What We're Looking For
We're looking for bold, original entertainment with a distinctive point of view, a compelling premise, and the potential to grow into a series.
Your show doesn't have to be about fatherhood. In fact, it should appeal to the dad who isn't specifically looking for traditional dad content. We're interested in great entertainment created by dads, across genres where men spend their time online including, but not limited to:
All formats welcome. From short-form video and YouTube series to podcasts, long-form programming, and entirely new digital formats, we're open to fresh approaches to storytelling.
What matters most is an original idea that people will want to watch, follow, and come back for.
03Who Can Apply?
If you're a dad with a great show idea, we want to hear it.
Whether you're an established creator, an emerging talent, or someone with a fresh perspective and a story worth telling, The Dads Initiative is looking for original voices across all backgrounds, interests, and communities.
We're especially interested in creators who:
You don't need to be a parenting influencer or have a massive following. We're looking for great ideas, compelling personalities, and creators with something original to bring to the table.
04How the Selection Process Works
Complete our online application and tell us about yourself, your original show or series concept, and the audience you want to reach.
Application Deadline: December 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM ETOur team will review submissions based on originality, entertainment value, audience appeal, and creative potential. Shortlisted creators may be invited to discuss their concepts and production approach with the TDI team.
Approximately eight creators will be selected to receive $5,000 each to develop and produce an original pilot. Selected creators will lead their own productions, managing the creative process and production costs within the provided budget.
Completed pilots will be tested and evaluated for entertainment value, audience engagement, and potential to grow into a series. Standout projects may be considered for additional investment, continued development, and longer-term opportunities with The Dads Initiative.
Application Deadline: December 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET
