Project Development Fund

Overview of the Project Development Fund program:

The Project Development Fund is part of Creative BC’s Domestic Motion Picture Programs and is designed to encourage the development of original motion picture content by B.C.-based creators. It supports the growth and competitiveness of the province’s screen-based industries by funding activities that move a project from concept to production readiness. This fund helps eligible companies offset costs related to writing, script development, market research, packaging, and securing creative or financial partners. The goal is to enable B.C.-based producers to bring compelling, market-ready content to domestic and international audiences while retaining intellectual property (IP) ownership in the province. Projects eligible for this funding may include scripted and unscripted television series, feature films, documentaries, and digital media productions. The funding is particularly focused on supporting content that reflects diversity, Indigenous voices, and B.C.’s regional and cultural identity. Creative BC places strong emphasis on inclusive practices and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. The fund also supports the development of talent pipelines and sustainable career paths within the province's creative industries. Applications are evaluated based on the strength of the project, the applicant’s track record, and the potential for production and market success.

Benefits of the Project Development Fund program:

• Provides early-stage funding for writing, development, and packaging
• Helps B.C. producers retain intellectual property ownership
• Encourages content that reflects diversity, inclusion, and regional representation
• Supports both scripted and unscripted formats (film, TV, digital)
• Facilitates market readiness and future production financing
• Offers support to emerging and mid-career creators
• Strengthens the B.C. motion picture ecosystem by investing in independent creators

Eligibility criteria of the Project Development Fund program:

• Eligible Applicants Must:
• Be a B.C.-owned and controlled company, registered and active in B.C. for at least one year
• Be primarily engaged in the business of developing and producing motion picture content
• Own the intellectual property or hold an option to acquire it
• Be developing a project in one of the following genres:
• Scripted or unscripted television
• Feature-length films
• Documentaries
• Digital media with cinematic intent
• Ineligible applicants or projects include:
• Projects already in production
• Service producers or producers-for-hire
• Projects primarily educational, commercial, or corporate in nature
• Applicants who are not based in B.C.