Description:

The Talent to Watch Program – Funding of First Feature Films from Emerging Filmmakers (the “Program”) aims to support a diverse array of emerging filmmakers. The intended outcome of this Program is to discover and develop the next generation of Canadian filmmakers, and to allow them to establish their voice and sensibility through a first feature.

Under this Stream, emerging filmmakers whose short films have been selected at a festival listed in Appendix A will be able to submit an application directly to Telefilm. 

Comments on Funding:

Funding will be in the form of a non-repayable financial contribution16 that may cover up to 100% of the project’s financing. The maximum contribution amount is set at:

Eligibility:

The applicant must:

The key members of the creative teams of all eligible projects must:

Producers who have previously produced one feature film that has received funding under this Program are also considered as emerging talent. This Program was previously referred to as the “Micro-Budget Production Program”. Additionally, Telefilm will show flexibility in the eligibility evaluation of key creatives who have previously produced, written or directed a feature film project of micro-budget scope (films which were self-financed or produced within a festival incubator or school program) funded outside of this program and that had a limited release.

Applications Steps:

Documentation Needed:

The applicant must submit:

Other Things to Note:

1. The list of eligible festivals is the same as in the previous year.
2. Guidelines updated on October 7, 2021.