#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST (CFF) ANNOUNCE YOU-CAN PITCH COMPETITION 2026

The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is pleased to announce the return of the You-CAN Pitch Competition for the second consecutive year. This initiative provides Black Canadian filmmakers with the opportunity to pitch their projects to a panel of industry experts and receive valuable feedback and mentorship to advance their careers. Aiming to support the next generation of filmmakers, the competition is open to both individuals and teams, with up to five finalists invited to take part in an exclusive in-person pitch session. Applications are now open here, and the deadline for submission is Sunday February 22nd, 2026 at 11:59 p.m EST.

The You-CAN Pitch Competition will offer finalists a chance to present their narrative feature film project to a panel of experienced industry professionals, who will provide constructive insights and guidance to help elevate their creative visions. Afterwards, they will engage in organized meetings with select panelists for further discussions and networking opportunities. There will also be virtual mentorship sessions and one-on-one practice opportunities prior to the pitch presentation, where participants will be able to hone their skills and practice with a mentor.

The selected finalists will receive CFF passes and access to the festival’s industry events and networking opportunities. The winner of the competition will receive over $35,000 of in-kind, career- building prizes to help them develop their feature film.

CFF’s You-CAN Pitch Competition is grateful for the support from mentors Shawn Gerrard (Jane, Space & Time) and Duane Crichton (Home, Murdoch Mysteries). R.T.Thorne (40 Acres, The Porter), Floyd Kane (Diggstown, Across the Line), Carolyn Mauricette (Director of Canadian Programming, Fantasia International Film Festival), and more to be announced will participate on the jury to select the winning pitch. This program is developed and hosted by CFF Programmer Richard Pierre.

“We’re proud to bring back You-CAN Pitch for the second year,” said Bern Euler, Executive Director, CFF. “This competition offers filmmakers a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, showcase their ideas, receive guidance, and develop skills that will serve them long beyond the festival. Canadian Film Fest is committed to creating spaces where emerging creators can be recognized and supported. We can’t wait to discover the next wave of exceptional Canadian filmmakers.”

Finalists will be chosen based on the strength of their pitches, creative concepts, and readiness to develop their projects further. Applications are now open, and the deadline for submission is Sunday February 22nd, 2026 at 11:59 p.m EST. To apply or for more details on the program, visit https://www.canfilmfest.ca/youcan-pitch-2026

The winner of the 2025 You-CAN Pitch competition was Vanessa Magic’s Nadine Pick Up the Phone, which is in pre-production.

This program is generously sponsored by OYA Black Arts Coalition and SESLER with prizes from Sunbelt Rentals Film and TV, Ontario Camera, Keslow Camera, Diving Horses, APM Music, and more.

The 20th edition of Canadian Film Fest takes place March 24 – 29, 2026. Applications open now here.