Industry Rendezvous - Film Funding Workshop

Meet the faces behind the organizations!

The annual MENA film financing workshop returns with a slate of representatives from top regional and national funders: including Telefilm, Canada Media Fund and Storyhive!

The 2025 MENA Industry Rendezvous lets you bring your pitch directly to prospective funders and hear direct feedback to build a better application tailored to each funder’s programs and requirements.

You’ll have the chance to share your idea, ask specific questions, learn more about the specific funding packages available, and meet fellow filmmakers, all in an informal one-on-one setting.

The Industry Rendezvous is open to all, but preference will be given to MENA/SWANA, Indigenous and other BIPOC filmmakers in case of limited resources.

Program

1:00 PM
Pre-session networking + refreshments

When you sign up, you will receive an email with more details about the Industry Rendezvous, as well as a form asking for a bit more information about your background and project to better help us match you with your preferred funder.

1:30 - 2:15 PM
Fundraising Panel

We will break the ice with a brief panel around the challenges of independent film funding in Canada and sharing tips and tricks, so you are equipped and ready to Rendezvous!

2:15 - 4:30 PM
One-on-one sessions commence with your pre-scheduled representatives:

• Each session will last 10 minutes for a quick snack and chance to catch your breath before moving to your next session!
• Participants are encouraged to discuss their projects at greater length with the funding representatives, or ask direct questions about the funding programs. The time is yours.
• In case of late or no-shows, pairings may be filled based on expressed interest in the pre-production forms.

5:00 PM
WRAP. Please continue to the lobby, where discussion can continue informally while capacity allows.

Ticketing: We know it’s tough to create independent film in Vancouver, so ticketing has been designed on a sliding scale.

After registration, participants will receive a form so we know your preference and can share information with the funders you are paired with. The schedule will be shared at the event. All participants will get to speak to two representatives (potentially more) based on preference and availability.

Food and refreshments provided. Limited availability.