CMF — Distributor Program
Canada
CMF Distributor Program enhances Canadian content distribution opportunities
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateNovember 07, 2024
- grant_single|closingDateNovember 28, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Information and cultural industries
grant_single|grantors
- Canada Media Fund (CMF)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The Distributor Program is a pilot initiative designed to provide more flexibility to Applicants by allowing financial contributions from Eligible Canadian Distributors to trigger funding, with a maximum CMF contribution of 49% of Eligible Costs or $500,000, whichever is lesser. The purpose of the program is to open up the CMF to a wider range of Applicants and market tests that may not have participated in the CMF’s funding system before, offering creative financing solutions for Canadian content seen domestically and internationally.
grant_single_labels|projects
The Distributor Program by CMF opens a channel of funding for Canadian content without a broadcaster attachment, broadening the spectrum for various creative projects. This program aims to integrate the contributions of Eligible Canadian Distributors in innovative production ventures.
- Projects must receive financial contributions from an Eligible Canadian Distributor to unlock CMF funds.
- Eligible projects are characterized under the linear content guidelines of CMF's core production.
- Projects in the Drama programming genre, pilots, and feature films are not eligible.
- Projects can include partnerships with a Canadian Broadcaster but are not required to do so.
- Creative projects must be produced primarily in either English or French.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific criteria that applicants must meet.
- An Eligible Applicant must comply with the criteria noted in section 3.1 of the Linear Content – Core Production Guidelines, unless otherwise specified.
- Applicants cannot be involved in In-house Programming.
- Not more than 50% of the Program funds will be allocated to Projects from Applicants who are Related Parties to the Eligible Canadian Distributor triggering the Project.
- The remaining Program funds are reserved for independent productions from Applicants not Related Parties to the Eligible Canadian Distributor.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Distributor Program is designed to support a wide range of applicants, particularly those without traditional backing from Canadian Broadcasters, to access new funding opportunities for audiovisual projects intended for distribution both in Canada and internationally.
- Applicants with eligible projects which include contributions from eligible Canadian distributors.
- Applicants working with independent productions not related to the distributor providing the triggering contribution.
- Applicants focusing on non-in-house programming.
- Applicants complying with the core Linear Content Production Guidelines and specific program criteria.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
The Distributor Program imposes specific restrictions to ensure that eligible applicants align with the program's intent of promoting Canadian audiovisual distribution. These restrictions focus on the nature of programming and commercial relationships with distributors.
- In-house Programming is not eligible for the Distributor Program.
- Pilots and projects that are feature films in the Drama programming genre are not eligible for funding in this Program.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant supports projects that involve the production of linear content by eligible applicants, with a focus on expanding audiences and enhancing distribution. Eligible initiatives are those that involve unique Canadian productions not tied to broadcasters.
- Development of original English or French language linear content productions aimed at Canadian and international audiences.
- Production of documentary, children and youth, or variety and performing arts projects that adhere to the program guidelines.
- Projects led by production teams with a track record of creating content despite not being tied to a traditional broadcaster framework.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers specific expenses directly related to the production of funded projects.
- Personnel salaries and benefits for production-related roles.
- Purchase of equipment and materials necessary for production.
- Production-related travel and accommodation expenses.
- Consulting fees for production support and creative expertise.
- Costs associated with securing distribution rights.
- Location fees and permits for shooting.
- Post-production expenses including editing and sound design.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria with allocated point scores to ensure alignment with the grant’s objectives.
- Track record and experience of the Production and Creative Teams: 18%
- Parity: 2% if 40% of the cumulative paid positions on the Production and Creative Teams are held by individuals identifying as women.
- Diversity: 2% if 40% of the cumulative paid positions on the Production and Creative Teams are held by members of a "Diverse Community."
- Experience of the Eligible Canadian Distributor, including success in distributing projects from 2019-2024: 18%
- Distribution Commitment: 50% based on the proportional level of financial contributions made by the Eligible Canadian Distributor to the project.
- Impact, including Community Engagement Plan (2%), Sustainability Plan (2%), Vulnerable genres (4%), and Regional Production Project (2%): 10%
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to apply for the Distributor Program grant:
- Step 1: Preliminary Checks
- Review the Distributor Program's 2024-2025 guidelines thoroughly to ensure eligibility and understanding of the application requirements.
- Check the eligibility of your project against the criteria outlined, including the Eligible Triggering Commitment requirements.
- Confirm that your distributor is an Eligible Canadian Distributor by having them contact the CMFPA at least fifteen (15) business days before application submission for eligibility determination.
- Step 2: Prepare Application Materials
- Gather all necessary project details, including budget, project timeline, and information on the creative and production teams.
- Prepare legally binding contracts showcasing the Eligible Triggering Commitments, including distribution agreements with the Eligible Canadian Distributor and, if applicable, licence agreements with Canadian Broadcasters.
- Ensure all supporting documents, like distribution and broadcast plans related to Exploitation Rights, are correctly compiled.
- Step 3: Craft Application
- Complete the program application form through the CMF’s online portal, detailing project specifics and funding requirements.
- Include a Community Engagement Plan and a Sustainability Plan, describing measures undertaken for responsible content creation and environmental sustainability.
- Highlight the experience and track record of the Eligible Canadian Distributor as required by the Evaluation Grid.
- Step 4: Application Submission
- Verify the accuracy and completeness of the application form and attached documents before submission.
- Submit the application on or after November 7, 2024, but no later than the closing date of November 28, 2024.
- Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-Up
- Receive confirmation of your application submission from the CMF’s online portal.
- Keep track of any communications from CMF regarding your application status or requests for additional information.
Apply to this program
Unlock Canadian Media Fund Support with the Distributor Program
The Distributor Program is a pilot initiative aimed at increasing the flexibility of financing for Canadian media projects by leveraging contributions from eligible Canadian distributors rather than requiring a direct broadcaster commitment. This program seeks to broaden the scope of opportunities for innovative content creators and contribute to showcasing Canadian creativity on both national and international stages.
Detailed Overview and Significance of the Distributor Program
The Distributor Program launched by the Canada Media Fund (CMF) represents a strategic pivot in funding mechanisms that seeks to support a range of creative projects through alternative pathways. By allowing financial contributions from eligible Canadian distributors to serve as the primary means of accessing CMF support, this program opens new channels for financing, which could be especially beneficial for projects that do not have the backing of traditional broadcasters. As a result, it presents a significant shift towards inclusivity and flexibility in how media projects in Canada are funded, promoting a wider array of works that can reflect the diverse tapestry of Canadian society and its stories.
This initiative is particularly critical in an era where digital distribution is becoming increasingly prominent, and audiences are seeking content through various platforms. By focusing on distributors, the CMF recognizes the growing importance of these entities in reaching both domestic and international audiences. The program thereby empowers distributors to play a more active role in shaping the media landscape by supporting projects they believe have strong market potential and creative merit.
Eligible projects can benefit significantly from such flexible funding opportunities, which encourage innovation and diversity in content creation. With a budget of $10 million, the program not only aims to provide financial assistance but also seeks to stimulate the industry by aligning with projects that can engage audiences globally. Moreover, the program allows for the combination of funds with those from the Broadcaster Envelope Program, ensuring that projects have access to comprehensive resources for their development and distribution phases. This flexibility ensures that both new and established creators can find pathways to bring their visions to fruition.
The Distributor Program also highlights the CMF’s commitment to supporting projects in English and French, reflecting Canada’s bilingual heritage. Eligibility under the program includes requirements that encourage fair market practices and genuine industry-standard contributions, creating a level playing field for applicants. The emphasis on market potential rather than traditional broadcasting commitments underscores a forward-thinking approach that can adapt to changes within the media landscape.
Overall, the Distributor Program represents a significant opportunity for Canadian content producers to explore new avenues of funding that align with modern consumption patterns and distribution strategies. It marks a progressive step towards fostering a dynamic and diverse media ecosystem in Canada, ensuring that high-quality content remains accessible to both Canadian and international audiences. This initiative not only boosts economic growth within the Canadian media industry but also champions cultural expression and innovation by enabling a wider range of stories and perspectives to be showcased globally.
