Applications open April 2, 2025 | APPLY
Applications close May 5, 2025 (11:59 pm PT)
Q&A Session (online) April 23, 2025 at 11 am PT /2 pm ET – Register Here
The 2025 edition of the WFF Screenwriters Lab is a unique, intensive, multi-phase script and industry development program designed to amplify Canadian screenwriters’ innovative, diverse, and distinct voices in a supportive, safe environment that enables participants to explore and experiment.
This edition is also the first Talent Lab offered in collaboration with Capilano University (Squamish campus) since a memorandum of understanding was signed in February 2025 between the two organizations to offer WFF’s Talent Programs at this beautiful facility.
Up to 12 selected participants work intensively with key film industry advisors and mentors in individual, group and market-oriented sessions to hone their craft through project-specific feedback and training that strengthens their ability to position their project for investment in the lead-up to the Whistler Film Festival.
Participants complete the program with a fully developed, market-ready screenplay and a carefully honed verbal pitch and pitch deck. Participants gain an in-depth understanding of the business acumen needed for success and develop a plan for moving both their project and career forward.
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Phase I (August 9-13, 2025): Includes an online introduction and mentoring sessions followed by a five-day workshop with an in-person intensive training at the spectacular Capilano University campus in Squamish, BC, for script development with mentoring sessions, group feedback, and screenwriting craft instruction.
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Phase II (August – October, 2025): Includes customized, individual mentorship that facilitates script development and pitch package preparation.
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Phase III (November 10-14, 2025): Includes a five-day online intensive business and industry immersion experience with pitch workshops and practice sessions, business-focused industry sessions, and case studies. Phase III provides unparalleled access to key decision-makers in the industry, along with festival preparations for pitching your script.
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Whistler Film Festival + Content Summit (Dec. 3-7, 2025): Participants will receive a nontransferable Industry Pass to the 2025 Whistler Film Festival and Content Summit (with early access to hotel partner discounts). This includes 1:1 Market Meetings, roundtable sessions, panel access, masterclasses, and much more.
Application Fee: There is a $55 + GST non-refundable fee per application. Payment is processed through PayPal only. *PayPal account not required*
Tuition: Course tuition fee: $2950 CDN per participant + GST. Payment plan options are available upon request.
