18 MM PROGRAM
Film Training & Mentorship for Youth
The 18 MM Program is one of three year-round filmmaking programs produced by KCFF. Inspired by the creativity and passion of young filmmakers in our region, this course and workshop series aims at providing participants with basic knowledge of the cinematic arts and the necessary skills for filmmaking practice. Selected participants will receive 6 months of training, culminating in the production of their short films. Once complete, the films will be promoted and screened at our annual winter Fest as part of the 18 MM Showcase. Participants walk the red carpet, take part in a post-screening Q&A, and are eligible for Festival prizes and awards. It’s a great opportunity and stepping stone for young filmmakers looking to take their craft to the next level!
We are now in year four of our program and are so grateful for our supporters — we truly could not do this without you. Huge thanks to our 18 MM Program Lead Sponsors: Diane Blake & Stephen Smith, with additional thanks to our 18 MM Supporting Sponsors: CIBC Private Wealth Wood Gundy: Vickers Wealth Advisory Group, Toronto Film School, and Queen’s University Department of Film and Media.
Want to help support programming like this? All donations go towards sustaining and enhancing training programs like the 18 MM Program. You can donate here!
“Thank you for allowing Kiefer the opportunity to join the 18 MM Program. Kiefer was accepted into York with an entrance scholarship BFA in Cinema and Media Studies. We’re big fans of what’s happening in Kingston through this program. Some great developments and opportunities for our little town.”
— Catherine Carbino, mother of 18 MM participant Kiefer Carbino
To learn more about the program, just ask our past participants!
The program is entirely funded by KCFF and its partners. No fees are required from students. Moreover, the program will provide students with the basic gear to film their projects (thank you Queen’s Film!)
1) The call is open to applicants who are enrolled in high school or are 18-years old or younger at the time of application. Applicants do not need to be Kingston-based, but in-person attendance is necessary, so travel will be required for those not living in Kingston. Applications from individuals who don’t meet this criteria won’t be considered for this particular program.
2) The applicant must be willing to attend 8 in-person essential training classes over the weekends of June and July 2026.
3) The applicant must commit to make (or participate in making) a final project (short film) over the course of the summer and deliver the final version to KCFF on or before December 1st, 2026.
4) No prior film experience or education is required, but might be valued.
5) Applicants must provide a short synopsis (100-200 words) for the project they wish to make as part of the program. Fiction, experimental, documentary, and hybrid films are accepted. Applicants may change their projects during the program.
6) The applicant must submit a complete application through the designated link below.
7) All applicants will be required to sign a contract as part of their participation in the program, with additional signature from a parent or guardian.
8) Participants are expected to respond promptly to emails from the instructor and any other KCFF staff throughout the duration of the program.
9) All participants in the 18 MM Program must agree to adhere to the KCFF Code of Conduct.
Applications for the 2026-2027 18 MM Program are NOW OPEN! Deadline to apply is May 15, 2026 at 11:59PM.
Lead Program Sponsors
Diane Blake & Stephen Smith
Supporting Sponsors
