Telefilm Canada launches two new programs following the review of the Promotion Program
Telefilm Canada announces the launch of two new programs following the review of the Industry Initiatives stream of the Promotion Program. This review was guided by Telefilm’s Strategic Orientation Framework and was informed by discussions with the industry.
The former Industry Initiatives stream of the Promotion Program has been replaced by two distinct programs:
Both programs will now be open to new applicants, rather than being limited to pre‑approved organizations.
Career Development Initiatives Program
The Career Development Initiatives Program advances the goal of strengthening Canada’s audiovisual industry by supporting the career progression of Canadian and Indigenous professionals nationwide.
The Program provides targeted financial support for capacity building activities that strengthen the talent pipeline for Canadian and Indigenous creators and professional workers in the audiovisual sector. The focus is on mentorship, professional development, skills enhancement and career advancement.
Program Objectives
The Career Development Initiatives Program aims to:
- Strengthen the industry by supporting activities that address current and emerging gaps in Canadian content, talent and professional development;
- Create opportunities for industry professionals to build expertise, gain hands‑on experience and advance their careers;
- Support the growth of the Canadian audiovisual industry nationally and its expansion internationally;
- Encourage collaboration among career development organizations and other expert partners; and
- Support an equitable and balanced portfolio of activities, reflecting regional and diverse representation.
Industry Promotion Initiatives Program
The Industry Promotion Initiatives Program aims to enhance the visibility of Canadian and Indigenous content and talent and to stimulate audience interest in Canada and internationally.
The Program supports strategic activities that contribute to the promotion of Canada’s audiovisual sector, including:
- National film and television award ceremonies;
- Alternative screening networks;
- Conferences and symposiums; and
- Other audiovisual industry promotion activities.
Program Objectives
The Industry Promotion Initiatives Program aims to:
- Expand and sustain audience growth and engagement for Canadian and Indigenous content;
- Increase recognition of Canadian and Indigenous content and talent in Canada and abroad;
- Support activities that respond to market needs and strengthen promotion and industry knowledge; and
- Support an equitable and balanced portfolio of activities, reflecting regions and diverse communities.
In support of Telefilm’s broader commitments, these Programs focus on national activities and integrates a stronger data‑driven approach that is aligned with Telefilm’s action plans for Official Languages (including OLMC), Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EDIA), regional strategies and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
Application process and intake dates
Career Development Initiatives Program
The Program will accept applications through two annual intakes, based on the start dates of proposed activities:
- First intake – For activities starting between October 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027
- June 2, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. (ET) to June 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (ET)
- Second intake – For activities starting between April 1, 2027, and September 30, 2027
- November 3, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. (ET) to November 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (ET)
Further details on eligibility, assessment criteria and funding parameters are outlined in the Program Guidelines.
Industry Promotion Initiatives Program
The Program will be open for applications throughout the intake period, under the following parameters:
- Program opening: June 2, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. (ET)
- Program closing: February 16, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. (ET)
Applications must be submitted at least three months prior to the proposed activity start date.
Further details on eligibility, assessment criteria and funding parameters are outlined in the Program Guidelines.
Information Session Webinars
To support applicants, Telefilm Canada will host Information Session Webinars with Telefilm representatives. There will be an open Q&A period at the end of the webinars.
Career Development Initiatives Program
- English session: Monday May 25, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST
- French session: Tuesday May 26, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST
Applicants are encouraged to consult the Guidelines, the Essential Information Guide, and other related documents prior to submitting an application.
Industry Promotion Initiatives Program
- English session: Monday, June 1, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (ET)
- French session: Tuesday, June 2, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (ET)
Applicants are encouraged to consult the Guidelines, the Essential Information Guide, and other related documents prior to submitting an application.
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.
Learn more:
https://telefilm.ca/strategic-program-review