Open
CMF — Conceptualization Program
Early-stage support for interactive digital media concepts
Last Update: April 9, 2026
Funding available
$ 15,000
Timeline
- Open Date : June 16, 2026
- Closing date : December 8, 2026
Location
Canada
Overview
The Conceptualization Program supports early-stage interactive digital media projects to validate a concept, test a proof of concept, and prepare for later financing stages. The maximum contribution is the lesser of 75% of eligible project expenses or $15,000.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop a new product or service
- Conduct research and development activities
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 15,000 $
- Up to 75% of project cost
Timeline
- Open Date : June 16, 2026
- Closing date : December 8, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Information and cultural industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Persons with Disabilities
- Canadians
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Early-stage conceptualization of new interactive digital media projects
- Creation and testing of a proof of concept
- Verification of design ideas, concept assumptions, or functionality
- Preparation of concept materials or pitch documents for future funding
Documents Needed
- Applicant Declaration
- Applicant narrative positioning attestation
- Project team description
- Curriculum vitae for each team member
- Budget
Official resources
Program guide
Application form
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- For-profit Canadian production companies
- Canadian broadcasters
Who is not eligible
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Companies that have already received CMF IDM funding, for this program
- Applicants without ownership and control of the project rights
Eligible expenses
- Content research and preparation
- Option rights acquisition
- Project team salaries, fees, contracts and benefits
- Legal and accounting fees
- Preliminary market research, focus groups, and technical or administrative costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Financing arrangement costs
- Equipment purchases and other tangible assets
- Travel expenses, including transport, per diems, and meals
- Training costs, conference fees, and award registration fees
- Advertising and promotional materials
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Selection criteria
- First-come, first-served funding method
- Priority may be given to projects with stronger eligible market commitments if oversubscribed
- Funding may be prorated or otherwise allocated equitably in cases of heavy demand
How to apply
1
Preliminary Preparation
- Review the eligibility criteria and program guidelines available on the CMF website.
- Ensure your project meets the definition of eligible projects under the Conceptualization Program.
2
Obtain PERSONA-ID
- Visit the CMF platform for information on PERSONA-ID.
- Complete the registration process to obtain your PERSONA-ID if you do not already have one.
3
Prepare Application Materials
- Create documents including project proposal, budget estimates, and proof of concept details.
- Gather any supporting documents such as company background and examples of previous work.
4
Accessibility Support (if applicable)
- If needed, access CMF’s resources for Persons with Disabilities/Disabled Persons.
- Arrange assistance for any accessibility needs during the application process.
5
Application Submission
- Submit your application package through the CMF’s online portal from June 18, 2024, to October 29, 2024.
- Ensure all required fields and documents are complete and included in the submission.
6
Confirmation of Submission
- Receive a confirmation email with an application reference number.
- Retain the confirmation for your records and future correspondence.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed under CMF interactive digital media guidelines and program-specific criteria.
- Funding is granted on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or the deadline is reached.
- If demand exceeds available funds, CMF may prorate or otherwise allocate funds equitably.
Additional information
- The program will no longer accept applications due to high demand.
- Applicants may need to use PERSONA-ID for their application.
- Accessibility support resources are available for applicants with disabilities.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the CMF — Conceptualization Program Program
What is the CMF — Conceptualization Program?
The Conceptualization Program supports early-stage interactive digital media projects to validate a concept, test a proof of concept, and prepare for later financing stages. The maximum contribution is the lesser of 75% of eligible project expenses or $15,000.
How much funding can be received?
CMF — Conceptualization Program Funds up to 75% of admissible expenses, capped at $15,000 per project.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program is December 8, 2026. Applicants must submit their complete application before this date to be considered for funding.
Who is eligible for the CMF — Conceptualization Program program?
To be eligible for the CMF — Conceptualization Program program, you must:
New CMF IDM applicant
Early-stage interactive digital media project
At least one year of experience
What expenses are eligible under CMF — Conceptualization Program?
Early-stage conceptualization of new interactive digital media projects
Creation and testing of a proof of concept
Verification of design ideas, concept assumptions, or functionality
Preparation of concept materials or pitch documents for future funding
Who can I contact for more information about the CMF — Conceptualization Program?
You can contact Canada Media Fund (CMF) by email at cmf.fmc.coordination@telefilm.ca.
Where is the CMF — Conceptualization Program available?
The CMF — Conceptualization Program program is available across Canada.