Filmmaker Assistance Program (FAP)

The Filmmaker Assistance Program (FAP) is designed to help developing independent filmmakers complete their films/videos by providing technical services and support.
  • National Film Board of Canada
Overview of the Filmmaker Assistance Program (FAP) program:

The Filmmakers Assistance Program (FAP) offers developing independent filmmakers an opportunity to receive financial support for their productions. In addition to this support, the FAP also provides an ideal avenue for emerging filmmakers to develop a profile and relationship with the NFB. FAP assistance will be limited to a maximum of $5,000 (plus GST/HST). The NFB investment provided under this Agreement shall be used solely for approved production and post-production expenses (including but not limited to equipment rentals, and post-production facilities).

Benefits of the Filmmaker Assistance Program (FAP) program:
  • FAP assistance will be limited to a maximum of $5,000 (plus GST/HST).
Eligibility criteria of the Filmmaker Assistance Program (FAP) program:
  • Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
  • Applications will be accepted from BC and Yukon residents only.
  • Applicants must be the director of the film, and only one application/film may be submitted per director.
  • Applicants currently enrolled in a film school program are not eligible.
  • Applications must be for films to be directed by an emerging filmmaker who has made no more than four films or video projects (not including student films).
  • Films must have completed their development phase and be ready for production, or already in post.
  • Films will be selected based on the productions relevance to the NFBs cultural and social objectives. You can find detailed information about the considerations that influence the NFBs programming decisions at: Propose a Project
  • Neither the Filmmaker nor the Production, as represented by any other party, is eligible for assistance or funding for any other cinematographic work at the NFB while a FAP Agreement is in effect.
  • Documentaries, short dramas, animation, and experimental films are eligible under this program.
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