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40th Chicago International Children’s Film Festival (CICFF) 

Chicago, United States, November 3 to 19, 2023

Call for entries

(Feature and short films, children and youth films) 

The Chicago International Children’s Film Festival (CICFF) is currently accepting applications for its 2023 edition. 

Please note that films must be submitted directly to the festival via FilmFreeway. 

Competitive: Yes  

Entry fees: Yes ($40 – 100 USD) 

ELIGIBILITY

Please see festival website.

ABOUT

Founded in 1984, the CICFF is the oldest children’s film festival in the USA and the largest in the world, screening on average 250 films from over 50 countries. Films selected for the festival are child- or teen-driven. The stories are culturally authentic, timely, and are of universal appeal. The content speaks positively to people of different backgrounds, cultures, and orientations. 

The CICFF aims to set an internationally recognized standard of excellence in film production for children and youth. The festival strives to support the work of talented and dedicated filmmakers by showcasing international films of the highest quality and awarding prizes in multiple categories of production formats and genres. The film experiences of young viewers are deepened through a broad range of programs which extend Festival film viewing into discussion and learning. 

In 2022, four Canadian films were presented and won a total of seven awards. 

Short films that win first prize from the Professional Jury in the category of Live-Action Short Film or Animated Short Film are eligible for the Academy Awards consideration. 

Telefilm Canada recognizes the selection of a feature film in the Festival for applications to its International Promotion Program

International Promotion 
Telefilm Canada, Montreal 
DL-festivals@telefilm.ca 
1 800 567-0890