Telefilm Canada announces the launch of the reviewed version of the Development Program, focused on the Prequalified Stream. The review was guided by Telefilm’s Strategic Orientation Framework and informed by discussions with the industry, as well as data analysis. 

The reviewed Development Program aims to better support a dynamic and competitive, audiovisual industry by placing a greater emphasis on company growth and momentum through funding predictability and creative autonomy. The Black People and People of Colour (BPOC) and Indigenous streams will be reviewed in 2026–2027 in collaboration with industry partners. 

Key changes: 

• Expanded Prequalified Stream: Increasing access to the Prequalified Stream, alongside higher funding levels, so that a greater number of companies that have demonstrated their ability to reach audiences can develop a portfolio of projects. 
• Modernized performance metrics:  Expanding past box office and revenues earned to capture audiences and impact including international visibility and festival recognition. 
• Evolution of funding streams: The General Selective Stream is being gradually phased out and will be eliminated by 2027–2028. This year, the program places greater emphasis on reviewing the recent track record of producers, while integrating the Springboard and Animation pilot initiatives permanently into the program.  

These changes aim to optimize the impact of Telefilm’s investments by supporting companies that demonstrate sustained activity and the ability to deliver results, while collectively positioning the program to better foster company growth, enhance industry resilience, and support the creation of films that resonate with audiences. 

Important information 

Telefilm will grant a two-week period to review festival selections and awards received by Telefilm-funded films at designated festivals in the past 6 years. To inform Telefilm of selections or awards that do not appear in the Performance Score tab in Dialogue, applicants are invited to complete the form available on Telefilm’s website before June 23, 2026. 

Applicants are encouraged to consult the Guidelines, the Essential Information Guide, and other related documents prior to submitting an application. 

Application period 

• Opening date: August 31^st, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. (ET)  
• Closing date: September 11^th, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (ET) 

Information session webinars   

To support applicants, Telefilm Canada will host information session webinars with Telefilm representatives. There will be a Q&A period at the end of the webinars.  

• English session: Wednesday June 17, 2026, 12 p.m. (EST) 
  • Registration: Telefilm Canada Information Session: Changes to the Development Program 
• French session: Tuesday June 16, 2026, 12 p.m. (EST) 
  • Registration : Téléfilm Canada – Séance d’information : Changements au programme de Développement  
• A dedicated webinar on the BPOC and Indigenous streams is scheduled for August (date to be announced). 

More about the Strategic Orientation Framework  

Informed by Telefilm’s key commitments and by consultations with the Canadian and international audiovisual industry, the Strategic Orientation Framework serves as a roadmap for the review of all Telefilm funding programs, to be carried out through to 2028.  

The Framework aims to foster greater cohesion across programs, support a more audience‑centered approach and puts forward a structured model supported by precise, targeted outcomes, designed to maximize the impact of Telefilm’s investments for the benefit of Canadian and Indigenous creators and companies.  

This review is intended to support a stronger data‑driven approach and is aligned with Telefilm Canada’s action plans, advancing the organization’s commitments to Official Languages (including CLOSM), Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA), regional strategies and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. 

Learn more:  https://telefilm.ca/strategic-program-review