Cinematic Futures Fund
Calgary International Film Festival
Funding target: $75,000 by December 31, 2025
The Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) is proud to announce the launch of the Cinematic Futures Fund, a new fundraising initiative designed to provide long-term, reliable support for the filmmaker awards that help define the CIFF experience.
“CIFF has always been powered by community — audiences, volunteers, partners, and supporters who believe in the transformative power of film,” said Katherine Penhale, Executive Director of CIFF. “This fund is a commitment to filmmakers. It ensures that the prizes that uplift and accelerate their careers remain strong and sustainable for years to come.”
Each year, CIFF’s jury prizes and the Audience Choice Awards shine a spotlight on bold storytelling, elevate emerging voices, and help attract exceptional films and filmmakers to Calgary. These awards do far more than recognize excellence — they validate years of work, open doors to new opportunities, and can be turning points in a filmmaker’s career.
To begin building the fund, CIFF has launched a month-long campaign with a goal of raising $75,000 by December 31, 2025.
Why the Fund Matters
Filmmaker awards such as Best Documentary, Best Narrative Feature, CIFF’s Alberta-focused categories, and the Audience Choice Awards play a pivotal role in championing new voices and bringing world-class cinema to Calgary. Securing sustainable funding for these awards reinforces CIFF’s commitment to the artists whose stories shape our cultural landscape.
How to Support
Donations of any size can be made at ciffcalgary.ca.
Supporters are also encouraged to help amplify the campaign online throughout the month of December. Check out the campaign video here.
