WHAT IS IGNITER?

• A comedy film challenge: 1 prompt. 1 month. 1 film.

• Open to female and gender-diverse Canadian filmmakers nationwide.

• 2025 saw in-kind prizes of $50,000+ awarded to participants.

• But the real win? You did it. You made a hilarious film for your reel and resume.

YOUR SIGN-UP INCLUDES:

• Exclusive Igniter Mixer: Find your filmmaking co-conspirators, or come to network. 

• Igniter Survival Guide (PDF): Tips to balance your four-week filmmaking sprint for maximum success.

• Invitation to Igniter Industry Day: Level up with an afternoon of organized roundtables led by comedy and filmmaking community leaders.

• Custom Comedy Prompt: One iconic prompt from a beloved comedy artist – the spark that kicks off the entire challenge.

• Firecracker Department Community access: Tap into a vibrant online network for support, ideas, pep talks, problem-solving, and creative camaraderie. 

• Eligibility to screen at the 2026 Comedy Igniter Showcase during 2026 CFF (8 films are selected)

• Selected showcase films received juried feedback in front of a live audience from industry professionals. Past jurors included Carolyn Taylor (I Have Nothing), Allana Harkin (Nesting), Lauren MacKinlay (Bell Media), Sarah Quan (CBC), and Aurora Browne (Baroness Von Sketch)

• Two Complimentary CFF Festival Passes: A value of $500.00+ each, includes access to all screenings and industry series events (excluding the Masterclass). 

• Complimentary Firecracker Comedy Café Tickets

• Submission fee waiver for the 2027 Firecracker Film Fest for B.C. Igniter residents

• Screening during the monthly Firecracker Department Comedy Brunch (Date TBD)

• VIP invitation to the yearly Firecracker Department Brunch during TIFF

• A finished short film with an ATL credit!