Telefilm Canada increases support for animated feature films
Telefilm Canada, at the Annecy International Animation Film Market (MIFA), proudly announces the launch of a new initiative for the development and export of animated feature films.
Telefilm Canada will establish a special envelope of $420,000 for animated features that will be integrated into the Development Program. This initiative aims to recognize the distinctive nature of animated films and to support their early creative stages, particularly storyboard development. It is part of a broader effort to prioritize animation across Telefilm’s entire continuum – from development to marketing – and to reflect the sustained growth of this sector within the audiovisual industry, both in Canada and abroad.
In collaboration with national and international partners, the initiative will highlight the excellence and creativity of Canadian animation while strengthening its export positioning. Backed by Telefilm’s funding programs, this new approach is designed to encourage business development in the field of animation.
A distinctive process
Creating an animated film is a distinctive process that mobilizes a wealth of resources and expertise from the project’s outset. Consequently, Telefilm will support Canadian producers and creators at a key moment, when the imagination takes shape and the narrative and visual foundations of the film are laid. The aim is not only to nurture artistic vision but also to maximize commercial potential by helping projects attract partners and distributors, especially international players.
Animation: a booming sector
Since 2017, Telefilm invested $36.28M in animation projects. During that time, funding applications for animation have doubled, testifying to the sector’s growing interest and dynamism. In the past seven years, Canadian animated films have ranked ten times among the annual top 15 box-office earners.
Telefilm’s aim is to accelerate the development of high-potential projects, strengthen the competitiveness of Canadian animation, engage more audiences and expand animation’s reach at home and abroad.
“Animation embodies our creativity, our capacity to innovate and bring generations together around powerful stories,” said Julie Roy, Executive Director and CEO of Telefilm Canada. “With this initiative, Telefilm is reaffirming its commitment to animation as a national jewel by supporting creators at the earliest stages of the process. It’s also a way of looking to the future, of continuing to seduce, captivate and reach audiences of all generations at home and abroad. And lastly, it’s a strategic investment in a fast-growing sector that generates economic value while showcasing Canadian talent on the world stage.”
About Telefilm Canada
As a Partner of Choice, Telefilm Canada is a Crown corporation dedicated to the success of Canada’s audiovisual industry, fostering access and excellence by delivering programs that support cultural resonance and audience engagement. With a lens of equity, inclusivity and sustainability, Telefilm bolsters dynamic companies and a range of creative talent at home and around the world. Telefilm also makes recommendations regarding the certification of audiovisual coproduction treaties to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, and administers the programs of the Canada Media Fund. Launched in 2012, the Talent Fund raises private donations which principally support emerging talent.
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Media contact:
Joyce Richards
Advisor, Strategic Communications
Telefilm Canada
Joyce.Richards@telefilm.ca