Call for Entries Opens for the 50th Anniversary of the Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) 2026!

The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF), a global pillar of the animation community, is officially inviting creators to submit their work for its historic 50th anniversary edition. Established in 1976, OIAF remains a vital launchpad for filmmakers seeking global recognition and is an Academy Award® qualifying festival.

2026 Competition Categories

Applicants may submit their work to only one of the following official categories:

• Animated Short (Narrative and Non-Narrative merged)
• Commissioned Animation
• Student Animation
• Feature Animation
• Animated Series
• Animation for Young Audiences (7-12) & Teens (13-18)

Submission Guidelines & Technical Requirements

• Deadline: May 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EDT).
• Human Involvement: Fully AI-generated works are not eligible. There must be a clear sign of the artist’s hand (non-algorithmic involvement).
• Screener Policy: Submissions must be via an online link (Vimeo/YouTube) active until late July 2026. No downloadable files or links requiring specific logins are accepted.
• Required Materials: 3 high-res stills (300 dpi), director’s photo, director’s biography, and a trailer link (if available).

Artist Fees & Financial Support

In a commitment to supporting independent creators, OIAF 2026 will pay Artist Fees for independent, non-commissioned films selected for the program, based on IMAA standards:

• < 5 mins: $124
• 5-15 mins: $187
• 15-30 mins: $250
• 30-60 mins: $309
• 60+ mins: $372 (Base fee for 2 screenings)

Festival Prizes and Craft Awards

The 2026 Juries will present Grand Prizes for Feature and Short Animation, alongside specific Category Awards. Additionally, excellence will be recognized through Craft Awards in the following areas:

• Script, Animation Technique, Sound Design, and Design.
• Special Awards: Hélène Tanguay Award for Humor, Public Prize, and the CFI Award for Best Canadian Animation.

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Official Submission Portal: animationfestival.ca/festival/entries

Note: Once a film is selected and announced, it cannot be withdrawn from the program.