Skip Navigation Links

Telefilm Canada relaunches the Theatrical Exhibition Program

23 September 2021

Telefilm is announcing the relaunch of the Theatrical Exhibition Program to stimulate the return of the in-person cinema experience and to encourage Canadian exhibitors to showcase Canadian films in their programming and promotion.

Given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on movie theatres in Canada, Telefilm’s Theatrical Exhibition Program has been revised to accommodate all eligible institutions and funding has been significantly increased to stimulate recovery. Increased financial support available from this program is granted by the federal government through the Recovery Fund for the Arts, Culture, Heritage and Sport Sectors, to assist exhibitors across the country as they recover and return to pre-pandemic levels.

As part of Telefilm’s optimization efforts, a program webinar will be made available in both Official Languages to inform applicants of recent changes, eligibility overview and application process followed by a Q&A period.


Key dates:

Program webinar (English): October 6, 2021 at 2pm EST, please RSVP by October 1, 2021

Program webinar (French): October 6, 2021 at 11am EST please RSVP by October 1, 2021

Opening date: October 18, 2021
Closing date: November 1, 2021


Important information:

The maximum funding for theatres has increased to $30,000 per theatre and $500,000 per corporate group in 2021-2022.

The method of calculation based on the numbers of screenings and admissions to Canadian feature films shown in previous years has been suspended, as such funding for this program will be automatically allocated in accordance with the criteria of the program.

Eligible institutions must commit to screening at least one Canadian film in the following calendar year. Telefilm’s financial participation is intended to cover promotional costs related to theatrical releases of Canadian films in the coming year as well as increased expenses for health and safety protocols, and costs related to transforming the business model to meet today’s digital needs – all with the aim to encourage Canadian audiences to return to theatres.

For more details, please consult the Theatrical Exhibition Program page.

This program is for Canadian commercial exhibitors and is intended to support the programming of Canadian films in theatres across Canada and to foster public access to these works. All applications must be submitted online via Dialogue. For new clients, please create an account here.