This paper explores the use of a variety of carbon nanoparticles to impart electrical, thermal conductivity, good frictional properties to silicon nitride matrices. We used the highly promising types of carbon as carbon nanotubes, exfoliated graphene and carbon black nanograins. A high-efficiency attritor mill has also been used for proper dispersion of second phases in the matrix. The sintered silicon nitride composites retained the mechanical robustness of the original systems. Bending strength as high as 700 MPa was maintained and an electrical conductivity of 10 S/m was achieved in the case of 3 wt% multiwall carbon nanotube addition. Electrically conductive silicon nitride ceramics were realized by using carbon nanophases. Examples of these systems, methods of fabrication, electrical percolation, mechanical, thermal and tribological properties are discussed.