Development program — Indigenous stream
Canada
Financing for Indigenous filmmakers
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|fromMinToMax
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateSeptember 03, 2024
- grant_single|closingDateSeptember 24, 2024
- grant_single|grantStatusClosed
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Information and cultural industries
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
grant_single|grantors
- Telefilm Canada
- Government of Canada
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a repayable advance of up to $30,000 to cover costs in the development stage of your feature film. To be eligible, you must meet certain criteria for recent theatrical releases, including having 1 project funded by Telefilm.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is available to Canadian feature film production companies based within a specific geographical location. Companies must have their head office in Canada to be eligible for application.
- Head office located in Canada.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$28,000
Developing storyboards and character design for an animated feature film about environmental conservation
$20,000
Developing interactive scripts for a comedy film featuring Black Canadian communities
$23,000
Research and script development for a biographical film about a prominent Canadian musician
$20,000
Developing script and funding research for a historical drama film set in 18th century Canada
$22,000
Script development and research for a sci-fi film exploring AI ethics in future societies
$27,500
Writing and research for a documentary film on the lives of Indigenous women in contemporary Canada
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's business location and operations.
- The applicant must be a Canadian feature film production company.
- The company must have its head office in Canada.
- The company must carry out its activities in Canada.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Canadian feature film production companies that have their head office in Canada and carry out their activities within the country.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The Development Program aims to finance Canadian feature films at various stages, including script development and packaging. Eligible projects can benefit from funding to advance through different program streams focusing on supporting diverse creative expressions.
- First Draft Script development for feature-length films.
- Second Draft Script enhancement for cinematic projects.
- Third or Subsequent Draft Script revisions for film narratives.
- Packaging activities to prepare a film project for production.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant:
- Quality and originality of the project concept
- Potential for artistic and commercial success
- Experience and track record of the key personnel involved
- Ability to meet the program's objectives and guidelines
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Review Guidelines and Important Documents
- Access and review the Guidelines and the Essential Information Guide dated from June 20, 2024, to ensure your project meets the eligibility criteria and requirements.
- Download the lists of required documents for the relevant streams (Prequalified, General, Indigenous, Stream for Black and People of Colour).
- Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
- Prepare the Declaration Form Regarding the Producer’s Previous Experience.
- Complete the Declaration of Canadian Status of Corporation and Corporate Information form.
- Compile the Production Sustainability Plan using the provided template.
- Prepare the additional declarations required for specific streams if applicable (e.g., Indigenous Stream, Stream for Black and People of Colour).
- Step 3: Use the "Dialogue" Portal
- Access the "Dialogue" portal provided by Telefilm Canada to start your application.
- Ensure you have a registered account on the portal and log in using your credentials.
- Step 4: Complete and Submit the Application Form
- Fill out the application form accurately with details of your project and production company.
- Upload all required documents as per the relevant stream you are applying for.
- Review your completed application for any errors or omissions before submission.
- Submit the application through the "Dialogue" portal by the specified deadline of September 23, 2024, 11:59 PM EST.
- Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-up
- Receive a confirmation of submission via the "Dialogue" portal.
- Keep track of any follow-up communications or requests from Telefilm regarding your application.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The Development Program includes a special Springboard Initiative for projects unsuccessful in the Production Program but with high rankings, starting in summer 2024.
- IT support for applications is only available on business days until 5:00 pm EST.
- Eligible companies will be notified of their eligibility and funding limits via Dialogue on June 21, 2024, for the Prequalified Stream.
- A variety of updated documents, including guidelines and essential information, were released in June and July 2024.
- Final reporting requires submission of cost reports, with templates available for different contract periods.
- There's a strict deadline for applications, closing at 11:59 PM EST on September 23, 2024.
- Applicants are encouraged to keep up to date with latest program updates directly via email.
Apply to this program
Empowering Canadian Feature Film Development
The Development Program provides essential financial support to Canadian feature film production companies aiming to progress their projects from script drafts to the packaging stage. This initiative promotes diversity in storytelling through its various streams including Indigenous, Black, and People of Colour, as well as a Prequalified and General stream.
Deep Dive into the Telefilm Development Program for Canadian Films
Telefilm Canada's Development Program is a cornerstone initiative that empowers Canadian feature film production companies to nurture and advance their projects beyond initial script ideas. This program is meticulously designed to support diverse narratives across the Canadian film landscape by providing financial assistance at the critical development stage. It offers four distinct streams, each tailored to meet the unique needs of different filmmakers, ensuring a broad spectrum of stories reach Canadian and international audiences.
Firstly, the Prequalified Stream is available to production companies that meet specific performance metrics and have been pre-approved for funding. This stream is especially beneficial for established companies with a proven track record, providing them a streamlined process to secure funding, which can help them focus more on creative aspects rather than administrative procedures.
The General Stream allows many production companies to apply, whether they are just starting or are well-established. It fosters innovation and originality by granting access to companies working on diverse and unique projects, thereby encouraging a wide variety of feature films that contribute to the Canadian cultural fabric.
Meanwhile, the Indigenous Stream and the Stream for Black and People of Colour are pivotal in supporting underrepresented voices within the industry. These streams reflect Telefilm’s commitment to inclusion and diversity by ensuring that stories from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds are developed and shared. The development of these stories is considered crucial, not only for domestic audiences but also for enhancing Canada’s portrayal on the international stage.
Adding to the program’s allure, starting in the summer of 2024, the new Springboard Initiative will invite projects that did not initially succeed in the Production Program but were highly ranked. This ensures that worthwhile projects are not discarded prematurely but are given another chance to succeed with strategic funding for development.
The application process is designed to be straightforward yet comprehensive. Production companies must submit their applications through Dialogue, Telefilm’s digital application platform, ensuring a streamlined, efficient process. The platform supports applicants by providing resources and guides to assist in the preparation of necessary documents and submission.
Moreover, companies interested in applying should keep track of key dates. It's essential to align their project timelines with the opening and closing windows for application submissions, as IT support is only available during business hours. This attention to detail helps prevent last-minute hurdles, ensuring a smooth application process.
Telefilm also places a strong emphasis on accountability and sustainability. Once funding is received, production companies are required to adhere to stringent reporting and accounting protocols. This not only ensures that the funds are being used appropriately but also helps maintain the integrity of the program while assisting companies in managing their budgets effectively.
The Development Program is thus an invaluable resource for Canadian feature film production companies at the development stage. It offers financial support, fosters diversity and inclusion, and ultimately helps bring Canadian narratives to life, thereby strengthening the cultural and commercial position of Canada’s film industry globally.
