
Closed
Source verified July 23, 2026
Talent to Watch program
Support for emerging filmmakers' first features
Latest source updateLast Update: May 1, 2026Latest change: The program timeline moved to the 2026 intake, and the documents section now points to updated 2026–2027 materials.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: May 1, 2026
Latest change: The program timeline moved to the 2026 intake, and the documents section now points to updated 2026–2027 materials.
Talent to Watch dates and documents updated
The Talent to Watch Program page now shows the 2026 intake dates in the key dates section, and the latest updates list adds a new April 28, 2026 document update. The updated business policies link also points to a new 2026–2027 Distribution Terms and Contracts Requirements file, indicating refreshed supporting materials for applicants.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Closed
Location
Canada
Overview
The Talent to Watch Program supports Canadian filmmakers and emerging talent to finance first feature films through Telefilm Canada. Eligible projects are feature-length film production projects, with support delivered through the Industry Partner Stream, Festival Selection Stream, and Filmmaker Apply-Direct Stream.
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At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop a new product or service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Persons with Disabilities
- Language Minorities
- Black Canadians
- Women
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Production stage of first feature film projects.
- Feature-length film projects.
Documents Needed
- Completed Script (for Theatrical Documentaries, most recent treatment or creative materials)
- Presentation Video
- Synopsis of the Project (PDF Format)
Official resources
Program guide
Application form
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Canadian film production companies.
- Companies or individuals who meet the eligibility criteria indicated in the Program guidelines.
- Applicants may submit on behalf of a company to be incorporated in the future.
Eligible expenses
This grant provides funding for emerging filmmakers to support the production stage of their first feature-length film project. It is aimed at nurturing new talent within the Canadian film industry through various inclusive application streams.
- Production of a first feature-length film by an emerging filmmaker.
- Projects recommended by a Designated Industry Partner.
- Participation for filmmakers who've had short films selected at recognized festivals.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- The cost of purchasing carbon offsets is not covered by Telefilm.
Selection criteria
- Creative Elements — 40
- Track Record of the Key Members of the Creative Team (Producer(s), Director(s), Screenwriter(s)) — 30
- Project Viability — 15
- Cultural Impact and Audience Reach Potential — 15
- Telefilm may prioritize projects whose key creative team members are part of communities supported through its Inclusion Initiatives, and gender parity remains a priority across all programs.
How to apply
- Submit all applications and recommendations to Telefilm through Dialogue.
- If applying on behalf of a company to be incorporated in the future, select Create an Organization in your Dialogue account and indicate the company name.
- Submit all required documents with the application form at the time of submission.
Processing and Agreement
- If an application is incomplete, applicants will be notified and given a notice to submit missing documentation within five (5) business days.
- Documentation submitted after the application submission, or after the notice period for an incomplete file, may not be considered in the decision-making process.
- Telefilm reserves the right to request additional information at any time.
- If the project is selected for financing, the applicant must incorporate and submit the incorporation document before signing a financing agreement with Telefilm.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Projects may be submitted only once per fiscal year.
- Key documents have been updated, and applicants should refer to the latest versions for guidelines and requirements.
- IT support is available only on business days until 5:00 pm EST, which may affect assistance availability.
- The application process is conducted through Dialogue, so applicants should familiarize themselves with this submission platform.
- Subscription to the newsletter is recommended to stay informed about the latest updates and changes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Talent to Watch program Program
What is the Talent to Watch program?
The Talent to Watch Program supports Canadian filmmakers and emerging talent to finance first feature films through Telefilm Canada. Eligible projects are feature-length film production projects, with support delivered through the Industry Partner Stream, Festival Selection Stream, and Filmmaker Apply-Direct Stream.
Who is eligible for the Talent to Watch program program?
To be eligible for the Talent to Watch program program, you must:
The applicant company must be entirely owned and controlled by the key creative team of the project.
The project must be a first feature film in the production stage.
Key members of the creative team must be emerging talent.
What expenses are eligible under Talent to Watch program?
Production stage of first feature film projects.
Feature-length film projects.
Where is the Talent to Watch program available?
The Talent to Watch program program is available across Canada.
Is the Talent to Watch program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Talent to Watch program is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Talent to Watch program?
Talent to Watch program is funded by Telefilm Canada