By: Jamie Casemore

Funding body Telefilm Canada has launched a new program to support the development and export of Canadian-made animated features.

Announced at the Annecy International Animation Film Market (MIFA) on Wednesday (June 11), the initiative earmarks roughly US$308,000 (CAD$420,000) to support the needs of animated films in the early creative stages, particularly storyboard development. This funding will be integrated into Telefilm’s Development Program.

Once the storyboard process is complete, production for animated features tends to advance quickly, says a spokesperson. So this early involvement in a film’s development also helps maximize commercial potential by attracting partners and distributors—especially international ones—thereby enhancing a project’s appeal to buyers globally. 

This new initiative is part of Telefilm’s wider plan to prioritize animation and encourage growth through the org’s funding programs.

In a signal of recent growth in the Canadian industry, Telefilm has already invested more than US$26 million (CAD$36 million) in animated projects since 2017 and has seen funding applications for animation double over that time, according to a release. Previous animated features that Telefilm has supported include Toronto-based Copperheart Entertainment’s Night of the Zoopocalypse (pictured) and the Hungary/Canada/Germany co-pro Fairyheart.

“With this initiative, Telefilm is reaffirming its commitment to animation as a national jewel by supporting creators at the earliest stages of the process,” said ED and CEO Julie Roy in a statement. “It’s a strategic investment in a fast-growing sector that generates economic value while showcasing Canadian talent on the world stage.”

A version of this story originally appeared in Kidscreen‘s sister publication Playback.