Designed to welcome emerging filmmakers from Atlantic Canada to the world of festivals and film distribution, the RBC Emerging Artist Fund presents the second annual AIFF Filmmaker Lab. Our goals are to inspire, educate and connect filmmakers, as they advance their artistic journeys.
This year, 8-10 selected participants will take part in workshops led by industry professionals, on topics including: Film Festival Strategy, A Programmer’s Perspective and Marketing Film.
Our mission is to demystify the film festival experience, culminating in a private showcase of their work in cinema and participation in a Q & A, with the opportunity to invite friends, family and stakeholders. They will also attend industry panels and industry weekend events, which include receptions, screenings and 1-2-1 meetings with a film festival strategist.
Are you Eligible to Apply?
Must be a resident of Nova Scotia, PEI, New Brunswick, or Newfoundland.
Must have completed at least one film in the past 5 years as well as applying to the lab with 1-2 new film(s) that will be completed in 2024. Acceptable roles in these films include: director, writer, producer or some combination. Please Note: Filmmaking teams will be considered as individual artists and will not be admitted to the program “as a team” but may be accepted individually.
Must demonstrate interest in pursuing a career in film, television, or other screen arts.
Must be available to participate in all the workshops and meet-ups virtually on the dates described in the application process. (Dates Listed Here).
Must be available to attend the Atlantic International Film Festival Sept. 11th - 18th in person in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
50% of the seats will be held for those who self-identify as QTBIPOC (Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous and people of color), Deaf, Disabled/differently abled, neurodiverse or coming from another equity-deserving community.
What will you receive as a Lab Member?
A festival pass, giving you full access to all the incredible industry programming, networking, galas and receptions on offer at this year’s festival. Please Note: There is no access with this pass to the AIFF Partners Conference
A special Filmmaker Lab Welcome Breakfast, and an invite to the AIFF Filmmaker Luncheon
1-2-1 personal coaching on a film release strategy
Relevant. skill building workshops
Opportunities to make connections with your fellow emerging artists in Atlantic Canada
A dedicated Lab Coordinator available to help you have the best experience possible
A cash honorarium to assist with traveling and attending the festival
A spot in a showcase where your film will be played in the cinema for a private audience with the opportunity to practice your Q & A skills for future screenings! Please Note: This is not in the AIFF Official Selection Programming but a private screening*
How Do You Apply?
Applications Are Now Open!
Applicants are required to submit a completed application (see google form link below) which will include links to: 1-2 Short Film Projects that have been completed or that they are currently working on, with plans to release the film(s) in 2024/2025.
Please note: These submissions are not associated with general submissions to the Atlantic International Film Festival, nor are they reviewed by the same team, you are however, welcome to apply to both the Filmmaker Lab and Atlantic International Film Festival separately. Please include any passwords needed to screen your work in the application
In order to make the lab as accessible as possible, there is no longer a fee to apply.
Deadline to Apply: June 5th, 2024 5:00PM ADT