The Young Filmmakers Party

Presents a new short film development challenge

From an unshot
concept to a
finished short film.

Our inaugural challenge is focused on original genre stories—including found footage—designed to run 10 minutes or less.

≤ 10 minutesUnproducedGenreGuaranteed distribution

Be first in line

Get the call for entries.

This is the interest list—not the official submission. No pitch, script or concept is needed today.

Your details are only used for challenge updates. No spam. No concept submissions yet.

27 YEARS OF COMMUNITY ONE NEW CHALLENGE YOUR STORY NEXT

More than a contest

Backing the
next wave.

Launched in tandem with the Young Filmmakers Party—a TIFF tradition for 27 years—this challenge is built around giving back to the film community and helping one bold short move from page to screen.

The selected filmmaker will gain access to a substantial professional support package—bringing together hands-on production services, industry-leading tools, expert mentorship and meaningful industry access to help carry the project from development through completion. The finished film will also receive guaranteed distribution through Bloodstream, FOUND TV, or both. Distribution is exposure-based and does not include an MG, licence fee or cash payment. Official partner announcements, eligibility, rules and submission dates are coming soon.

01Call for entries
Coming soon
02Winner selected
February 2027
03Short completed
By TIFF 2027

One winning filmmaker.
A full circle of support.

Partner reveals begin soon.
01Story development
02Production mentorship
03Equipment
04Insurance + legal
05Practical + VFX
06Post-production
07Music + licensing
08PR + festivals
09Sales + distribution