#FIRSTLOOK: CANADIAN FILM FEST LAUNCH YOU-CAN PITCH COMPETITION

The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is thrilled to announce the launch of the You-CAN Pitch Competition, a dynamic new program designed to provide emerging Black Canadian filmmakers with the opportunity to pitch their projects to a panel of industry experts and receive valuable feedback. 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.

The You-CAN Pitch Competition will offer finalists a chance to present their film projects to a hand-picked panel of experienced industry professionals, who will provide constructive insights and guidance to help elevate their creative visions. Following the pitch session, participants will engage in organized meetings with select panelists for further discussions and networking opportunities.

CFF’s inaugural You-CAN Pitch Competition is grateful for the support from our designated 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.

The selected finalists will also receive CFF passes, granting access to the festival’s industry events and networking opportunities. This provides a chance for filmmakers to make valuable connections, discover new industry trends, and expand their creative horizons.

“The You-CAN Pitch Competition is an exciting opportunity to engage with top-tier industry professionals and refine your filmmaking pitch,” said CFF Executive Director, Bern Euler. “At the Canadian Film Fest, we’re committed to supporting emerging talent and fostering the next generation of filmmakers, and this competition is a perfect platform for them to showcase their work and take it to the next level.”

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 Friday March 3, 2025 at 11:59 pm EST. To apply or for more details on the program, visit https://www.canfilmfest.ca/youcan-pitch-2025.

This Program is generously sponsored by Shaftesbury, Rhombus Media, with Prizes totalling over 20K from Sunbelt Rentals, PurpleDOG Post, and more prizes to be announced.

About the Canadian Film Fest
The Canadian Film Fest (CFF) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling by exclusively showcasing Canadian films. The festival unites film-loving audiences with diverse selections of features and shorts from across the country. The CFF provides Canadian filmmakers with essential professional development and networking opportunities through its Industry Series and awards.

(Photo credit: Shawn Goldberg)