The Export Assistance Program becomes the International Promotion Program – Distribution Support 

Telefilm Canada is pleased to announce that the Export Assistance Program (which has been on hold since September 2023) is back and will now be known as the International Promotion Program – Distribution Support. 

This program is the first to undergo a comprehensive evaluation, in line with a strategic program analysis framework adopted by Telefilm earlier this year. This review, which included an industry survey and consultations, as well as an analysis of similar domestic and international programs, is in line with our strategic objective of maximizing the impact of our programs with the industry and the public.  

Our evaluation demonstrated the need to consolidate our international programs to offer more coherent support, focused on the potential to reach an international audience. The changes to this program are designed to introduce a selection process that focuses on the quality and viability of the international distribution strategy, to give Canadian producers greater control over the international promotion of their projects, and to ensure that we have better data to measure the results of this program.

Key dates: 

• Opening date: July 3, 2025 
• Closing date: February 11, 2026 (subject to availability of funds) 

Applications must be submitted before the release of the project in the target territory, but for fiscal year 2025–2026, films released since June 1 will be accepted.  

Important changes: 

• Applications must be submitted by Canadian producers (instead of international distributors). 
• The decision-making process becomes selective (rather than automatic). 
• Non-recoupable contributions are capped at $35,000 per territory and $90,000 per project. 
• The international distribution contract must include a minimum guarantee of at least $5,000. 

All important documents, such as the Guidelines, Essential Information Guide, List of Required Documents and more, are available on the International Promotion Program – Distribution Support webpage.