Join us at TIFF:The Market at Toronto International Film Festival 2026
Published: 18.06.2026
Open Call
TIFF:The Market 2026

ISFI, with the support of the Indigenous Cinema Alliance (ICA) and the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), offers Sámi filmmakers with new film projects an unique opportunity to participate in TIFF: The Market 2026, in September.
When?
TIFF: The Market: 10 – 16 September, 2026
Toronto International Film Festival 10 – 20 September, 2026
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Wednesday 24 June 2026 at 23:59 (CET).
We are currently seeking:
1. Up to Three Film Projects
ISFI is looking to support up to three Sámi film projects at TIFF The Market 2026, the industry market of the Toronto International Film Festival. We are looking for feature films, short films, documentaries, animation project, or series that would benefit from international market exposure.
Selected projects will receive support and visibility through the help of Indigenous Cinema Alliance international market activities, connecting filmmakers with sales agents, distributors, festival programmers, streamers, financiers, and co-production partners.
Projects will be be considered for:
Market line-up
Presentation at the market booth, with visibility towards international industry professionals.
International Co-Production Pitch
For projects seeking cross-border financing and co-production partners.
“Would You Buy This?” Market Pitch
For rough-cut projects. Producers present 5–8 minutes of footage to international distributors and buyers, focusing on market positioning and financing potential.
Priority will be given to projects in late post-production, production, going into production, or advanced development, but all projects are welcome to apply. We will provide industry accreditation and travel support for one producer/representative per selected film project.
2. One ICA Fellow
ISFI is also seeking one producer to participate as an Indigenous Cinema Alliance Fellow. This opportunity is intended for producers with previous experience attending international film markets who wish to expand their professional network and strengthen their international industry profile.
As an ICA Fellow, you will receive:
- Priority access to ICA events and industry sessions
- Participation in curated networking opportunities
- Access to ICA’s international network of Indigenous filmmakers and industry professionals
- The possibility of bringing a project that may be considered for ICA market activities
What You Will Get
In addition to the direct impact on your project, participation will give you industry accrediation and access to the wider international film industry at one of its most important meeting points. You will gain insight into the latest trends and market developments, get the opportunity to attend screenings of major new films, and have the opportunity to connect directly with producers, co-financiers, distributors, and festival representatives in relation to your own work. You will also be part of the Indigenous Cinema Alliance delegation and invited to key Indigenous industry events at TIFF, including the Indigenous Screen Office Breakfast, a central networking gathering that brings together Indigenous filmmakers featured in the TIFF programme from around the world.
Travel & Accommodation
ISFI will support travel through its regular travel grant scheme. Please contact ISFI about the accommodation.
Applicants will be contacted shortly after the deadline so preparation for the market can begin as early as possible.
To make the most of the market opportunity, participants should be available in Toronto from 9–15 September 2026.
Questions?
For any questions, please contact:
Maien Gaup Sandberg, International Coordinator, maien@isfi.no
and
Eva Måsø, Communications Consultant, eva@isfi.no
What is Indigenous Cinema Alliance?
Starting as a market stand at the European Film Market (EFM) alongside Berlinale’s NATIVe: A Journey into Indigenous Cinema, the Indigenous Cinema Alliance (ICA) represents a coalition of international Indigenous partners, including film festivals, commissions, and institutes. Our mission is to promote Indigenous cinema globally, create culturally safe spaces for Indigenous professionals, and develop sales channels and secure co-productions for Indigenous titles.