Selling your projects outside Canada takes time and money. International markets, festivals, and sales trips add up fast. The Global Market Development Fund – Film and Television helps Ontario film and TV companies cover part of those costs, with up to $15,000 available for eligible international market development activities.
This guide breaks down who is eligible, what activities qualify, and how Ontario Creates decides if your application meets the fund’s requirements.
The Global Market Development Fund – Film and Television is delivered by Ontario Creates, an agency of the Government of Ontario. It is designed for Ontario-based companies that are actively building international markets for their film and TV projects.
To be eligible, your business must meet all of the following conditions:
The fund supports company growth, not the production budget of a specific film or TV show. Your application must focus on how the activity strengthens your business in global markets.
Eligible companies can receive:
This means you must cover at least half of the budget from other sources, such as company revenue or additional funding programs.
The Global Market Development Fund is non-repayable, which means you do not pay it back if you meet the program terms.
Ontario Creates funds international market development activities that directly support business growth. Common eligible activities include:
Activities must be clearly connected to business outcomes. Simply attending an event is not enough. Your application should explain who you will meet, what you are selling, and how it supports your growth strategy.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly filter Ontario film and TV grants by activity type and funding amount.
Eligible expenses are tied to approved international activities and may include:
Ontario Creates will only reimburse eligible expenses, and total public funding cannot exceed approved cost limits.
Applying as an individual creator
The fund is for Ontario-based companies. Freelancers and individuals are not eligible on their own.
Focusing on production instead of market development
Applications that read like production budgets are often rejected. The fund supports sales, growth, and international expansion.
No measurable outcomes
You must show how the activity leads to concrete results, such as sales discussions or market entry plans.
Assuming all festivals qualify automatically
Festivals are eligible only if they support clear business and market development goals.
Q: Is the Global Market Development Fund repayable?
No. The funding is non-repayable as long as you meet the program’s reporting and eligibility requirements.
Q: Can I attend international film festivals using this fund?
Yes. International festivals are eligible if your participation supports measurable business and market development outcomes.
Q: Can I combine this fund with other Ontario or federal film grants?
In many cases, yes. Funding stacking may be allowed as long as total public funding does not exceed eligible cost limits.
Q: How often can a company apply?
Ontario Creates sets limits per intake and fiscal year. Check current program guidelines before applying.
Q: Is funding from the Global Market Development Fund taxable?
Grant funding is generally considered taxable income for businesses. Confirm with your accountant based on your situation.
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