SAFA FILMMAKER INCUBATION PROGRAM: 2026/27 Cohort

The SAFA Filmmaker Incubation Program is a new professional development initiative of the South Asian Filmmakers Alliance (SAFA), created to support emerging and advancing South Asian filmmakers through learning, access, mentorship and industry connection.

The inaugural cohort will bring together a select group of South Asian filmmakers for a program of learning, mentorship, industry access and connection—creating opportunities to strengthen their practice, broaden their networks and navigate the next stages of their careers.

The journey begins at the IFFSA Film Summit 2026, October 10–12, where selected filmmakers will receive special cohort access with 50% off the Three-Day Pass, immersing them in masterclasses, workshops, industry conversations and networking across the art and business of cinema—and continues beyond the Summit through select mentorship, learning and industry-engagement opportunities, connecting them with experienced filmmakers, screen professionals and the wider South Asian filmmaking community.

Summit Details: iffsatoronto.com/2026-film-summit/

The program is designed not around a single project, but around the filmmaker—creating opportunities to learn, connect and navigate the next stages of a career in film and screen.

Specific opportunities will vary throughout the program period.

WHO SHOULD APPLY

The program is open to South Asian filmmakers based in Canada who are actively pursuing a career in the screen industry.

Applicants should be available to attend the IFFSA Film Summit, October 10–12, 2026, in Brampton.