Canada Media Fund Business Development Program 2026

The Canada Media Fund Business Development Program is a new $5 million pilot for small and mid sized Canadian companies. It supports companies with a track record of making linear content, such as TV, or interactive digital media content. The money pays for work that grows the business, like entering new markets, building partnerships, acquiring new IP and developing audiences.

There are two tracks, based on total revenue over the last five fiscal years. The Growth Track is for companies with $250,000 to $999,999 and gives a non repayable contribution of up to $100,000 (CAD). The Accelerate Track is for companies with $1,000,000 to $9,999,999 and gives a recoupable investment of up to $300,000. In both tracks the CMF pays at most 75% of eligible costs. The budget is split equally between the two tracks.

Applicants must be for profit, Canadian controlled corporations with a head office in Canada. They must have been incorporated for at least five years, and their main business must be producing linear or interactive content. Companies do not need past CMF funding.

Each applicant submits a business plan for a term of 12 to 24 months, with clear targets for revenue, growth and market access. Applications open in Telefilm Canada's Dialogue portal on November 10, 2026 and close on November 26, 2026.

Applications are judged against others in the same track. The evaluation grid looks at the company's track record and revenue growth, the quality of the business plan, and its expected effect on revenue. It also gives points to Indigenous owned, equity deserving owned and regional companies.

Quick answers

How much does it pay?

Up to $100,000 non repayable (Growth Track) or up to $300,000 recoupable investment (Accelerate Track), capped at 75% of eligible costs (CAD). It is a grant and takes no equity.

When is the deadline?

Applications open on 10 November 2026. The deadline is 26 November 2026.

Who can apply?

Canadian controlled, for profit companies incorporated for at least five years, whose main business is producing linear or interactive digital media content, with $250,000 to $9,999,999 in revenue over the last five fiscal years. It is limited to applicants in CA.

How do I apply?

Through the official page at cmf-fmc.ca. The link is at the top of this page.

Do I need past CMF funding to apply?

No. Companies do not need to have received CMF funding before.

Does the Accelerate Track money have to be paid back?

It is a recoupable investment. The CMF receives 3% of the company's future consolidated revenues, minus project based production financing, starting in the year the term ends.