UPDATE: TIFF: The Market has officially invited over 250 international buyers to its inaugural event, set to take place from September 10-20, 2026. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance the film distribution landscape, providing 650 market screening slots across premium venues, including TIFF Lightbox and Scotiabank.
At this time, details are still emerging regarding whether the market will cover travel, accommodation, or badge costs for the new cohort of distributors. The event is backed by a substantial USD $16.9 million (C$23 million) investment from the Canadian federal government and supported by Telefilm Canada, marking a significant investment in the film industry.
The screenings will commence just two days before the festival kicks off, designed to offer sellers a unique chance to engage with a curated, public test audience, bridging the gap between market dynamics and festival experiences. Confirmed participants include major players like UTA Independent Film Group, WME Independent, and CAA Media Finance, all attending with completed projects aimed at securing distribution.
Despite the excitement, concerns have been raised about the timing of this market, occurring shortly after the summer holiday period. Participants at the recent AFM in Los Angeles voiced their worries, yet many welcomed the opportunity for an additional sales forum. The market hub will be located at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, just a short walk from TIFF Lightbox, featuring 120 exhibitor spaces, multiple programming stages, business lounges, and innovative market screenings.
Additionally, sales suites will be available at nearby hotels, such as the InterContinental Toronto Centre and The Ritz-Carlton. However, it remains unclear if the renowned Soho Hotel Toronto, a long-standing venue for US sellers, will be included in the offerings.
Cameron Bailey, TIFF CEO, emphasized the significance of aligning TIFF: The Market with the annual festival, stating, “As the largest public film festival in the world, there is no better place than TIFF to get a pulse on what is resonating with audiences.”
Adding to the excitement, Charles Tremblay, who recently took the helm at TIFF: The Market, noted the strong support from key stakeholders, including major film agencies and international buyers, highlighting the timeliness of this event. The market will also feature a seven-day speaker summit, an innovation hub showcasing eight projects focused on AI, XR, and immersive content, alongside a project market for titles in development aimed at fostering co-production.
With these developments, TIFF: The Market is poised to transform the film industry’s landscape, creating essential opportunities for distributors, filmmakers, and buyers alike. As we await further updates, industry professionals and film enthusiasts alike are eager to see how this inaugural market unfolds, paving the way for future collaborations and innovations.
Stay tuned for more updates as TIFF: The Market prepares to make a significant impact in the film world!
