How much funding can be received?

Funds up to 150000% of admissible expenses.

What is the deadline to apply?

The program is accepting continuous intake

Who are the financial supporters of the Talent to Watch program?

Talent to Watch program is funded by Telefilm Canada, Government of Canada

Talent to Watch program

Q: What are Talent to Watch program's eligibility criterias?

Applications may be submitted by companies that meet the eligibility criteria indicated in the Program guidelines. Key members of the creative teams of all submitted projects must be emerging talent.

Last Update: July 22, 2025

Canada

Financing for new filmmakers to create online content

Talent to Watch program at a glance

Eligible Funding

Max. $150,000

Timeline

Open Date : April 16, 2024
Closing date : May 1, 2024

Financing Type

Grant and Funding

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries
Arts, entertainment and recreation

Funds Providers

Telefilm Canada
Government of Canada

Program status

Closed

Overview of the Talent to Watch program program

Get a contribution of up to $150,000 provided through 1 of 3 streams for the production, digital distribution and promotion of a first feature-length film longer than 75 minutes.

Eligible projects & activities

This program, supported by Telefilm Canada, is available to eligible applicants from across Canada. The eligibility is determined by the location of the applicant in relation to their status as a Canadian corporation or individual in the film industry.

Canadian film production companies located in any of Canada’s provinces or territories.
Emerging filmmakers who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 150,000

Producing an immigrant family drama exploring cultural assimilation

$ 150,000

Producing an animated feature film for children set

$ 150,000

Creating a biographical film about a historical figure from Halifax

$ 150,000

Producing a futuristic sci-fi thriller shot entirely

$ 150,000

Producing a comedy film about university life featuring a diverse cast

$ 150,000

Creating a documentary on the lives of Indigenous artists

Eligibility criteria of the Talent to Watch program program

Summary: The Talent to Watch Program supports emerging filmmakers looking to finance the production stage of their first feature film project. Eligibility criteria include being an emerging talent, Canadian film production companies, and meeting the diversity criteria specified in the program guidelines.

Applicants must be emerging talent.
Key members of the creative teams must meet the diversity criteria outlined in the program guidelines.
Applications can be submitted by companies or individuals who meet the eligibility criteria.

Who is eligible?

Applications may be submitted by companies or individuals who meet the eligibility criteria indicated in the Program guidelines. Key members of the creative teams of all submitted projects must be emerging talent.

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.

Eligibility criteria of the Talent to Watch program program

The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant include assessing the submitted projects based on specific guidelines and criteria to determine eligibility and feasibility.

Projects must align with the eligibility criteria and guidelines of the Talent to Watch Program.
Evaluation will consider the industry partner recommendation, festival selection, or direct application streams.
The creative team's composition in terms of diversity and representation plays a crucial role in the selection process.

How to apply to the Talent to Watch program program

Review Program Guidelines

Access and review the program guidelines to ensure eligibility.
Familiarize yourself with each stream and the specific requirements.

Choose Application Stream

Determine the appropriate stream for your project: Industry Partner, Festival Selection, or Filmmaker Apply-Direct.

Identify Required Documents

Consult the list of required documents for your chosen stream.
Prepare necessary forms and templates like the Standard Production Budget Template and Letter of Recommendation if applicable.

Prepare Application Materials

Complete all application documents, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Compile supporting materials such as the Track Record of the Producer, Director or Screenwriter.

Submit Application via Dialogue

Log in to the Dialogue portal.
Upload all required documents and completed application forms.
Ensure application is submitted within the specified opening and closing dates: April 16 to April 30, 2024.

Confirmation of Submission

Receive confirmation of submission through Dialogue.
Keep the confirmation details for future reference.

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.
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