Producing film or TV in Northern Ontario can stretch your budget quickly. Travel, crew, and location costs pile up. Even with tax credits, making your project work can be tough. The Northern Ontario Film and Television Program helps by covering up to 50% of eligible production costs, with funding of up to $2 million per project.
This guide explains how to apply for the Northern Ontario Film and Television Program, who qualifies, and what you need ready before you start.
The Northern Ontario Film and Television Program is part of Ontario’s Cultural Supports Program — Film and Television Stream. It is managed by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).
This grant is a contribution, not a loan. You do not have to repay it if you follow the program rules.
To qualify, your production must meet all the following requirements:
Missing any of these items means your application will not move forward.
The program supports professional, market-ready productions, including:
Documentaries may be considered if they are market-ready and meet all requirements. However, the program focuses on scripted content. Unscripted or development-only projects do not qualify.
You must include a signed commitment letter from a qualified distributor or broadcaster. This proves your project has a market and is a key requirement.
Before you apply, you need proof that 100% of your budget is financed. This can include:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and industry while you build your financing stack.
Common application materials include:
Incomplete applications often cause delays.
Applications go directly to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. The program is currently open, but intake timing can change based on available funding.
NOHFC may ask for more information about budgets, locations, or financing. Quick and clear answers help keep your application moving.
Applying without a distributor or broadcaster
You need a written commitment letter. Verbal interest is not enough.
Underestimating Northern Ontario production costs
Unrealistic budgets can make your financing plan look weak.
Assuming all scenes can be filmed elsewhere
Your project must be filmed in Northern Ontario to qualify.
Waiting too late to confirm stacked funding
You must show full financing when you apply, not after approval.
Q: Is the Northern Ontario Film and Television Program repayable?
No. Funding is a non-repayable contribution, as long as you follow all program rules.
Q: Can I combine this program with other grants or tax credits?
Yes. Stacking is allowed if you can show confirmed financing and stay within program limits. See also How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules.
Q: Do all scenes have to be shot in Northern Ontario?
Your project must be filmed in Northern Ontario. Limited exceptions may be reviewed, but Northern Ontario production is required.
Q: What percentage of my budget can this program cover?
The program covers up to 50% of eligible production costs, capped at $2 million per project.
Q: Are documentaries eligible?
Documentaries may be eligible if they are market-ready and meet all requirements, but scripted features, series, and made-for-TV movies are prioritized.
If your project is filming in Northern Ontario and already has market interest, this program can help your financing plan. GrantHub tracks hundreds of grants for Canadian film and TV projects, including film and television funding. Check which ones match your production needs and timeline.
You may also want to read related guides like What expenses do arts, culture, and media grants cover? and Journalism tax credits vs grants in Canada: What media businesses should know.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.