VIFF Catalyst is an intimate cohort-based program that provides 15 emerging and dedicated filmmakers with the tools to elevate their projects. Through a cohort-based approach, the program seeks to create peer-to-peer and peer-to-mentor conversations, and facilitate an environment free of barriers and hierarchies. Catalyst participants leave the program with a new network of collaborators and a stronger connection to the local film community.
Catalyst applications are now closed.
Supported by
Highlights
Inclusive Approach
The program actively seeks participants from underrepresented backgrounds, fostering a diverse and enriching peer mentorship environment.
Cohort Experience
Participants become part of a diverse cohort, enabling balanced and insightful discussions that contribute to each participant’s growth.
Dedicated Sessions
The program explores various aspects of filmmaking, including festival strategy, distribution, ethical filmmaking, and more, through roundtable discussions and case studies.
Financial Support
Selected participants receive a full festival pass and a professional stipend to help mitigate any financial barriers associated with attending the program.
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Access
Catalyst is open to emerging filmmakers from across the lower mainland. Applicants must be at least 19 years old at the start of the festival. 15 applicants will be selected to form the cohort and events will take place during the 2025 festival (October 2–12, 2025). If you require any accommodations, please reach out to [email protected].
FAQs
Is this program open to people who are not in Vancouver?
Due to the program’s focus on community building, we will only consider applications from those who live in the Vancouver Lower Mainland area.
Is there an age limit?
You must be at least 19 years old at the start of the festival to be eligible for the program.
I do not yet have PR status in Canada. Can I still apply?
PR status is not needed to participate in the Catalyst Program but it may limit the types of grants you can apply for outside of the program.
How many people are selected to participate?
Each year we select 15 filmmakers to take part in the program.
Who decides which applicants are selected for the cohort?
Each application is read and reviewed by at least two members of our selection committee. The committee, made up of program alumni, comes together to collectively make decisions on selecting the cohort.
I am a producer. Can I still apply?
This program is created specifically for directors or director/writes. Your work can be in scripted, doc, experimental or animation. Those with previous experience in producing or other departments can still apply if they are looking to shift their focus onto directing. They need at least one directing credit to quality for our cohort.
When are the sessions?
The Catalyst sessions will take place during the festival (October 2–12).
Do I need to submit a project pitch or proposal as part of my application?
You do not need to submit a pitch deck or script as part of your application. The program is not a place to develop your specific project but is geared towards cultivating community and collaboration through earning.
Will this program fund my film?
The Catalyst program does not fund projects as it is a creative development opportunity for early career filmmakers. If applicants have a slate of projects in development they are welcome to share in their submission but this is not required as we will not be focusing on singular projects during the program.
Success Stories
I made incredible, long-lasting friendships through the cohort and appreciate the access to more experienced filmmakers and contacts in the industry. The sessions felt personal and I felt like everyone had an opportunity to ask questions.
I don’t think I’ve ever had the confidence to introduce myself as a filmmaker before Catalyst. I do now! I definitely feel like I’ve got my footing better now than I did before.
Being recognized/selected for this program was very validating as a new filmmaker. The combination of practical advice and industry info, along with being with and learning from other creatives has made me feel more confident to make bold artistic choices as well as navigate my career and this industry.
Definitely increased my confidence and competence. I also learned that I know more than I think I do and that I deserve to take up space and call myself a filmmaker. I definitely feel that this has played an invaluable part of my career to make me eligible and ready for new opportunities that will further my career.