PictureNL’s Development Loan Program can invest up to 33% towards an eligible project’s development budget financing.

• Maximum support of $35,000 per project

• Can be accessed across multiple phases (up to three) or in a single phase for larger projects

• Funding for activities such as script and treatment development, research, market analysis, and demo reels

Development funding is considered an advance on equity and does not qualify for tax credits.

This program is intended for:

• Production companies majority‑owned by Newfoundland and Labrador residents

• Projects that meet PictureNL’s eligibility criteria

• Projects with a financial commitment from a third‑party investor at the time of application

The Development Loan is considered an advance on equity. The loan is repayable when your project moves forward. Repayment is triggered by events such as:

• The first day of principal photography on the film or related work based on the screenplay

• The sale, transfer, or other disposition of the screenplay or project

Full repayment terms are outlined in the Script Development Agreement.

All final decisions for the Development Loan Program are made by PictureNL’s Board of Directors, following internal review and recommendation.

PictureNL holds four application rounds per year for the Development Program.

Funding rounds for 2026 have now closed. The next funding round will open in 2027, with dates to be announced soon.