Getting your Canadian film, series, or XR project in front of international buyers can be expensive. Festival travel, marketing materials, and market access fees add up quickly. The Telefilm Canada International Promotion Program helps cover these costs with repayable funding for eligible Canadian companies.
This guide explains who can apply, what expenses are covered, and how to submit a strong application.
To apply for the Telefilm Canada International Promotion Program, your company and project must meet clear requirements.
You may qualify if you are:
All applicants must be Canadian-controlled and operate in the audiovisual sector.
Your project must meet at least one of these criteria:
Eligible formats include:
Telefilm sets maximum funding amounts based on your project type:
The minimum funding is $2,500 per project, and the maximum is $40,000.
The program covers direct costs related to international promotion.
Common eligible expenses are:
Expenses must be reasonable, directly related to the international activity, and incurred within Telefilm’s approved timeline.
See also: What expenses do arts, culture, and media grants cover?
Applying for the Telefilm Canada International Promotion Program works best when you plan ahead and follow each step carefully.
Most applications require proof that your project has been:
Telefilm does not accept speculative or unconfirmed events.
Your budget should:
Applications are submitted directly to Telefilm through their portal. Deadlines depend on the event or initiative, so timing is important. GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you find similar media and international marketing programs across Canada.
This funding is repayable. If your project earns revenue under certain conditions, you may need to repay all or part of the funding.
Applying without a confirmed festival or market invitation
Telefilm requires written confirmation. Verbal interest is not enough.
Requesting more than the maximum amount
Funding caps are strict and depend on project type.
Including ineligible expenses
Domestic marketing or unrelated production costs are usually not covered.
Submitting late applications
Late applications may miss Telefilm’s review deadlines.
Q: Is the Telefilm Canada International Promotion Program repayable?
Yes. Funding is provided as a repayable contribution. Repayment depends on whether the project earns revenue.
Q: Do I need to be invited to a festival before applying?
Usually, yes. Telefilm requires proof of selection or invitation from a recognized festival or market.
Q: Can short films apply for international promotion funding?
Yes. Short films under 30 minutes can get up to $4,000.
Q: Are XR projects eligible under this program?
Yes. XR projects may receive up to $5,000 for international promotion.
Q: Can sales agents apply on behalf of a project?
Yes. Canadian sales agencies representing eligible Canadian projects may apply.
International promotion funding works best when combined with other financing. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active film, media, and international marketing grant programs across Canada. This helps you find options that fit your project, timeline, and budget before you apply.
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