International markets and co-productions
Contact
As Canada’s screen-based industry becomes increasingly global, producers must be equipped to build international partnerships, navigate major markets, and identify new opportunities to finance, develop, and distribute their projects. The next module of the STAR Producer Program is designed to help producers strengthen their international business strategy and make the most of opportunities available at home and abroad.
The module will begin with two introductory information sessions exploring TIFF: The Market and MIPCOM Cannes, offering producers an overview of each market, and strategies for maximizing meetings and networking opportunities.
Building on that foundation, subsequent sessions will focus on navigating international co-productions, providing producers with the knowledge and tools to expand their reach and build successful global partnerships.
Workshop
Budgeting and financing an international treaty co-production
This interactive workshop, facilitated by Anne-Marie Gélinas of Montreal-based EMA Films, focuses on the budget and financing structure of an international treaty co-production feature film project.
Working through a live case study, participants will analyze a coproduction budget and financing plan while exploring how creative decisions affect the allocation of expenses, financing sources, tax credits, and revenue sharing between partners.
Using real-world examples and practical exercises, this session transforms the theory of treaty co-production into practical decision-making tools that participants can apply to their own projects.
The workshop in Toronto was offered in-person on September 10, 2026 during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
The workshop will also be offered to members in-person on October 5, 2026 during the Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF).
EMAfilms produces internationally recognized films that resonate with global audiences. Anne-Marie Gélinas, founder of EMAfilms, has a diverse filmography that includes award-winning dramas like Beans – Tracey Deer’s debut feature, which premiered at TIFF 2020, screened at over 100 festivals, including BERLINALE 2021 where it won the Crystal Bear/Generation K award, and received numerous accolades, including the CSA’s Best Motion Picture. EMA’s buzzy genre films include Slaxx – directed by Elza Kephart, which premiered at Fantasia 2020, screened at Sitges, FrightFest (winning the “Best Monster” Award), and Bifan is now streaming on Shudder – and Turbo Kid, which premiered at Sundance and SXSW, winning the Audience Award.
Webinar
CMPA & TIFF Producer Pre-Market Bootcamp
CMPA members are invited to join Geoff Macnaughton (Vice President, Market Programming & Theatrical) and representatives from the CMPA for a practical session designed to help producers make the most of the inaugural TIFF: The Market.
On Thursday, July 26 at 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. ET / 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. PT, participants will receive an overview of the Market, including what to expect, how to navigate the venues and programming, strategies for connecting with buyers and fellow delegates, and tips for building an effective meeting schedule. The session will conclude with an overview of CMPA member initiatives at the festival, including exclusive networking opportunities and the discounted registration offer available to CMPA members.
Geoff Macnaughton is the Vice President Market Programming and Theatrical, and Programmer of Primetime at TIFF. Macnaughton’s remit includes programming, creator development, and business-to-business opportunities for professionals across film, series, and innovation. He also leads TIFF Lightbox’s theatrical exhibition business, as well as Film Circuit, a programme that brings films to 150 communities across Canada. He co-hosted the popular podcast TIFF Long Take and has served on various film-festival juries and panels. He has an MA in Cinema Studies at York University.
Webinar
MIPCOM Cannes & MIP Markets
For producers looking to expand their reach globally, understanding the international marketplace is an essential first step. Join Matthew Rosenstein (Director of Buyer Relations and Business Development, RX Global) for an introduction to MIPCOM Cannes and the broader family of MIP markets.
This session, taking place on Thursday, July 30 at 12 – 1 p.m. ET/ 9 – 10 a.m. PT, will provide an overview of what to expect, who attends, how to navigate the market, and strategies for building meaningful international connections. Whether exploring MIPCOM for the first time or considering how it fits into a broader international business strategy, producers will leave with a clearer understanding of how to prepare for and maximize one of the world’s leading entertainment content markets.
Matthew Rosenstein is Director of Buyer Relations and Business Development at RX Global, where he works on MIPCOM Cannes, MIP LONDON, and MIP Cancun. Since joining the company in 2014, he has focused on bringing together buyers, sellers, commissioners, and producers at the world’s leading entertainment content markets. He helped launch the MIP Markets matchmaking program and works with production organizations across the Americas to encourage participation and foster international business opportunities. Based in New York City, Matthew has more than 25 years of experience with companies in telecommunications, satellite, and television content, including five years living and working in Paris. He is fluent in French and, outside of work, enjoys singing and is a rising cabaret performer.