2026 Call for Submission is almost here!

Original works primarily driven by frame-by-frame or computer-assisted animation techniques, using visual storytelling as the main creative tool. Must be under 60 minutes.

Innovative productions that challenge traditional storytelling or production techniques. May blend genres, formats, or forms to deliver a unique artistic vision. Must be under 60 minutes.

Projects in any genre created and directed by full-time post-secondary students. Submissions must be non-professional and completed without industry funding or employment. Must be under 60 minutes.

Single productions or series in any genre created specifically to entertain or educate children or youth audiences. Must be under 60 minutes.

Series or single programs that explore personal or cultural lifestyles—including home design, food, travel, fashion, wellness, and leisure—featuring hosts or talent-led formats designed to inform, entertain, or inspire. Must be under 60 minutes.

Non-fiction films across all subjects and genres, with a total runtime of 15 minutes or less.

Celebrating excellence in video advertising for products, services, or organizations. Open to individual producers or production companies from across Canada.  Must be 60 seconds or less.

Programs that deepen understanding of mental health issues, portray lived experiences, or reduce stigma across any genre or format. Must be under 60 minutes.

Documentaries that explore historical events, cultural heritage, or social customs, offering insight into specific communities, eras, or traditions. Must be under 60 minutes.

A scripted series of at least three episodes with a consistent story arc, tone, or character journey. Only one episode should be submitted for consideration. Must be under 60 minutes.

Scripted fiction of any genre or theme with a maximum runtime of 15 minutes.

Documentaries that examine topics in science, medicine, nature, the environment, or technology. Includes one-offs and episodes from anthology or strand series. Must be under 60 minutes.

Documentaries that explore current affairs, social issues, political movements, or public policy. Includes one-offs and episodes from strand or anthology series. Must be under 60 minutes.

Recognizing exceptional audio storytelling that explores factual topics—ranging from history, lifestyle, health, science, and true crime to investigative journalism—through compelling research and creative presentation. Open to one-off or episodic series.

A scripted film that showcases excellence in narrative, direction, and performance across dramatic or comedic storytelling. Must be over 70 minutes.

Non-fiction series presented across three or more episodes, with each episode contributing to a coherent thematic focus. Can include lifestyle, investigative, or observational content. Only one episode should be submitted for consideration. Must be under 60 minutes.

A stand-alone, non-fiction film that presents a compelling real-world subject through strong storytelling and cinematic craft. Must be over 70 minutes.

Programs (fiction or non-fiction) that tell Indigenous stories, explore Indigenous issues, or present an Indigenous worldview. At least one key creative (producer, writer, or director) must be of Indigenous descent. Entries may be submitted for either the Indigenous or Multicultural Award, not both.

This production reflects voices which are rarely heard, and exemplifies diverse, cross-cultural storytelling in novel and unique ways. And comes with $1,000 cash award.

Awarded to a director making their professional debut. Eligible entrants must not have more than two years of industry experience, and the production must not have received post-secondary support.

Programs that reflect Canada’s diverse racial and cultural landscape. Entries may be submitted for either the Multicultural or Indigenous Award, not both.

Honours excellence in colour grading that significantly enhances a production’s visual quality and narrative impact. Open to any genre or format. Submissions must include a before-and-after reel. *Note. you must have entered your production in anyone of the above main categories to be eligible.

Please note – a before and after reel is required.

.