TIFF announces the CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund

$30,000 fund aims to support three creative teams each year, propelling them towards the realization of their cinematic visions over three years

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is proud to announce the CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund. In collaboration with CJ Cultural Foundation and the Korean Film Council (KOFIC), the CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund’s goal is to foster, support, and champion Korean Canadian and American filmmakers looking to develop their first or second feature film. The CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund, with an annual budget of $30,000 for a three-year period, will support three creative teams, empowering them to bring their cinematic dreams to life.

“CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund is a testament to our commitment to nurturing new diverse voices and fostering cultural connections in the world of cinema,” said Anita Lee, TIFF Chief Programming Officer. “TIFF’s collaboration with CJ Cultural Foundation and KOFIC is a groundbreaking initiative providing support for filmmakers from diasporic communities. By supporting these storytellers in their early journeys, we are building cultural bridges and shaping the future of our industries. We can’t wait to see the remarkable stories that will emerge from this fund.”

The CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund is set to commence accepting applications in November 2023, with the recipients set to be announced in 2024. In addition to receiving the development prize, the selected participants will each receive direct one on one mentorship on story development with CJ ENM. 

“We are thrilled to announce the launch of the CJ & TIFF K-Story Fund, a platform that will empower the next generation of filmmakers,” said Park Kiyong, chairperson of Korean Film Council. “This fund is to invest in the future of cinema, and KOFIC will provide full support to the creators with the unique perspectives who seek opportunities. As a government agency, we also see this fund as an initiative to boost creativity in Korean and North American film industries, as well as to lay the groundwork for the prospective filmmakers.”

Heekyung Jo Min, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at CJ, launched the K-Story Fund at K-Movie Night and said, “It brings me immense pride to announce the launch of the K-Story Fund in partnership with TIFF this year, which marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and Canada. It is our hope that this fund helps filmmakers in North America who are of Korean backgrounds, unleash their creative potential.”