The Smart Short Award is calling for applications from creatives who can craft compelling short films using only their mobile devices. This is your chance to showcase your storytelling skills and receive funding to bring your cinematic vision to life!

Award Details

  • Total Award Amount: $800

  • Pre-Production Grant: $400 awarded to the applicant with the strongest concept and production approach.

  • Completion Grant: An additional $400 will be awarded upon successful submission of the completed short film.

  • Screening: The selected short will be screened at the 34th Annual Cabbagetown Short Film Festival in Toronto, September 3-6, 2025.

    NB: Final film must have English subtitles if dialogue is not in English

Eligibility Criteria

  • Open to filmmakers of all levels—no prior experience required.

  • The film must be shot entirely on a smartphone (any brand or model).

  • The final film must be maximum 5 minutes in length.

  • Any genre is welcome, but content must be original and appropriate for public viewing.

Submission Requirements

Applicants must submit:

  1. Production Approach ( 500 word maximum )

    • How you plan to shoot the film using a smartphone.

    • Cinematic techniques you will use (e.g., lighting, stabilization, sound recording).

    • Production budget

    • Crew and brief bios (writer, director, producer, cinematographer if applicable)

    • Editing and post-production plans (apps, software, effects, etc.)

  2. Film Treatment ( 500 word maximum )

    • A detailed synopsis of your film’s story.

    • Character descriptions and main themes.

    • Visual and stylistic approach (colour, tone, framing).

  3. Supporting Materials (Optional but Recommended)

    • Mood board, sample images, or reference clips.

    • Previous work (if applicable).

Judging Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

  • Creativity & Originality – How unique and engaging is the concept?

  • Feasibility & Execution Plan – Can this film be effectively produced with a smartphone?

  • Storytelling Potential – Does the narrative have depth and impact?

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: April 1, 2025

  • Winner Announcement: May 1, 2025

  • Film Submission Deadline: August 1, 2025

How to Apply

Submit your application via email to admin@cabbagetownfilmfestival.com by April 1, 2025. The selected applicant will receive the initial $400 grant to start production. Upon completion and submission of the final film, the remaining $400 will be awarded.

For any questions, please contact admin@cabbagetownfilmfestival.com

We look forward to seeing your stories come to life. Good luck!