Telefilm: Theatrical Documentary Program

The Theatrical Documentary Program finances feature-length documentary projects in production and post-production.

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Telefilm

} 11:59 pm

 One-time

Online

 Funding: maximum of $500,000

Opening date: March 19, 2025

Closing date: April 2, 2025

Who can apply

Canadian audiovisual production companies that:

Basic Project Eligibility Criteria – Telefilm Theatrical Documentary Program

Must be a feature-length documentary (minimum 75 minutes).
Language: English, French, Indigenous language, or another language for artistic reasons.
Must be primarily for the Canadian theatrical market, with at least a three-month exclusive theatrical window before any broadcast or digital release.
Minimum budget: $400,000 (except postproduction applications, which have no minimum).
Postproduction applications must be submitted between rough assembly and picture lock.
Must be owned and controlled by Canadian applicants, with Canadian copyright (unless a treaty coproduction).
Must meet Canadian content certification:
- Either CAVCO-certified (minimum 8/10 points or 80%)
- Or recognized as an audiovisual treaty coproduction.
Must be solely directed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents (unless a treaty coproduction).
Must adhere to Canadian broadcasting and ethical standards.

Theatrical Distribution Requirements

Must be released in Canadian theatres within one year of completion, with a marketing plan.
For budgets of $500,000+, a commitment from an eligible Canadian distributor is required.

Ineligible Projects

Telefilm Financing Terms

Production Stage:

For budgets under $500,000: Up to 49% of eligible Canadian production costs or a maximum of $175,000 (whichever is lower).
For budgets of $500,000 or more: Up to 35% of eligible Canadian production costs or a maximum of $500,000 (whichever is lower).

Postproduction Stage:

Up to 49% of eligible Canadian production costs or a maximum of $75,000 (whichever is lower).

Learn more about this Opportunity