Film & TV Development First Draft Stream

Overview of the Film & TV Development First Draft Stream program:

The Film & Television Development Grant from Creative Saskatchewan is designed to support Saskatchewan-based producers in developing screen-based projects intended for commercial distribution. The grant aims to strengthen the provincial film and television industry by providing funding for the development phase, which includes activities such as research, writing, planning, and packaging. The goal is to help local creators secure production financing and distribution agreements for their projects by assisting them in crafting professionally packaged proposals. Projects must be intended for public commercial viewing, such as through theatrical release, broadcast, streaming, or digital platforms. This grant supports various genres and formats, including feature films, television series, documentaries, and animated content. The grant is open to both individuals and corporations residing in Saskatchewan, and it focuses on fostering viable projects that can proceed to production stages and attract market interest. The program is tailored to facilitate access to larger-scale investment and to support career growth and economic development within Saskatchewan's creative sector.

Benefits of the Film & TV Development First Draft Stream program:

• Financial support to cover early-stage development activities (script writing, research, project planning, packaging).
• Helps Saskatchewan-based producers secure market interest and eventual production funding.
• Promotes industry growth and sustainability within the province.
• Increases the visibility and commercial viability of local screen-based projects.
• Provides access to expert jury evaluations and industry guidance.
• Facilitates the creation of pitch-ready materials to attract investors or distributors.

Eligibility criteria of the Film & TV Development First Draft Stream program:

• To be eligible:
• Applicants must be residents or companies based in Saskatchewan, registered and in good standing.
• Individuals must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
• The applicant must own at least 51% of the copyright and all underlying rights for the project.
• The project must be intended for commercial public distribution, not educational or internal use.
• The applicant must demonstrate a track record of experience in film, television, or digital media production.
• Projects must be in the development phase (pre-production); this grant does not support production or post-production.
• Applicants must not be in default of any prior Creative Saskatchewan contributions.