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By Ryan Remati-Paquette
December 8, 2025

What the Production Program Funds: French Market Budgets Under $3.5M

The Production Program for French market budgets under $3.5M offers vital financial support to Canadian feature films produced in French. Designed to enhance the cultural landscape, this program funds projects at the production and post-production stages, promoting Canada's rich audiovisual heritage. For full eligibility details, consult the complete program guide.

Overview of the Production Program

This program supports Canadian audiovisual production companies aiming to create feature-length films in French. Projects must be produced or post-produced in Canada to qualify. The initiative seeks to enrich the Canadian cultural scene with high-quality French-language films.

Funding Amounts & Rates

While specific funding amounts can vary, the program generally covers a significant portion of eligible expenses. For precise funding rates and calculations, visit the complete program guide.

Eligible Expenses

The Production Program can fund various expenses essential for film production. Key categories include:

  • Salaries and Wages: Compensation for key creative personnel, technicians, and crew.

  • Equipment Rental and Purchase: Leasing and acquisition of necessary filming equipment.

  • Consulting Fees: Costs associated with hiring industry experts to enhance production quality.

  • Post-Production Costs: Editing, sound mixing, and visual effects.

These categories provide a framework, but additional costs may also be eligible. For a complete list, refer to the complete program guide.

Ineligible Expenses

Not all production costs are covered. The program does not fund promotional activities, marketing expenses, or projects primarily intended for commercial advertising.

Expense Documentation Requirements

Applicants must maintain thorough records of all expenses to ensure compliance. Documentation such as invoices and contracts should be retained for auditing purposes.

Examples of Funded Projects

Successful projects typically include narrative films that highlight Canadian culture and diversity. Previous recipients have produced award-winning films praised for their artistic and cultural contributions.

Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process

Funding is often disbursed incrementally, aligned with project milestones. Applicants must submit claims with supporting documentation as outlined in the complete program guide.

Stacking Rules

The program allows for funding from multiple sources, provided the total public funding does not exceed a specified percentage of the production budget. Detailed stacking rules are available in the complete program guide.

Real-World Budgeting Tips

To maximize funding, applicants should strategically allocate their budgets towards eligible expenses, ensuring alignment with program guidelines.

Conclusion

The Production Program for French market budgets under $3.5M is a valuable resource for Canadian filmmakers. By understanding what expenses are covered, production companies can effectively plan their projects and leverage available resources to bring their creative visions to life. For comprehensive details, always refer to the complete program guide.

About the author

Ryan Remati-Paquette - Canadian grants specialist

Ryan Remati-Paquette

Canadian grants specialist
Working at helloDarwin for some time now, I'm in charge of providing you with the information you need on government aid. Dedicated to helping companies in Quebec and Canada reach their full potential, I write on the helloDarwin blog about the various programs, allowances and funding available to enable organizations to make their digital transformation through access to federal and provincial support.

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