Hot Docs Regular Deadline

Toronto, Ontario
Canada

HOT DOCS FESTIVAL REGULAR DEADLINE

Hot Docs is not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing and celebrating the art of documentary and creating production opportunities for documentary filmmakers. It was founded in 1993 by the Documentary Organization of Canada (formerly the Canadian Independent Film Caucus), a national association of independent documentary filmmakers. In 1996, it became a separately incorporated organization with a mandate to showcase and support the work of Canadian and international documentary filmmakers and to promote excellence in documentary production.

Each year, Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival — North America's largest doc festival, conference and market — presents over 200 cutting edge films from around the world. Year round, it supports the Canadian and international industry with professional development programs and a multi-million-dollar production fund portfolio, and fosters education through documentaries with its popular free program Docs For Schools.

Hot Docs owns and programs the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, a century-old landmark located in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood and the world’s first and largest documentary cinema. During the pandemic, Hot Docs launched the Hot Docs at Home streaming platform to provide audiences across Canada access to first-run documentaries and curated programming and events.

Inspiring change through storytelling

Our mission is to celebrate and advance the art of documentary by bringing outstanding films to our audiences and providing essential programs and opportunities for filmmakers.

DEADLINES & FEES

Opening Submission Date
TBA

Notification
Applicants will be notified of programming decisions via email by mid-March.

Event Date
April 23 - May 3, 2026

Visit the Hot Docs website for more information.