The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is one of the world’s leading events dedicated exclusively to animation, bringing together artists, filmmakers, and industry professionals for a dynamic five-day celebration in Ottawa, Canada. Established in 1976 and marking its 50th anniversary in 2026, the festival presents a curated selection of animated works alongside talks, workshops, and networking opportunities that bridge artistic practice and industry development.

The 2026 call for entries invites animated films of all forms, including short films, feature films, series, and commissioned works. Submissions are evaluated for competitive screening across multiple sections, with selected works showcased to an international audience of peers, programmers, and animation enthusiasts. Entrants must submit a streamable screener link along with supporting materials such as still images and a director biography.

OIAF stands out as a major platform for animation talent, offering filmmakers the opportunity to gain global visibility and connect with a wide professional network. With hundreds of films screened and a strong reputation within the international animation community, participation in the festival provides both emerging and established creators with a meaningful opportunity to present their work in a respected and influential context.

Entry fee: Free entry

Eligibility

Open to creators worldwide submitting animated films completed after May 31, 2024, with accessible online screeners and required supporting materials.

Prize

Selected films compete in multiple official competition categories, with awards recognizing excellence in areas such as short films, feature films, and other animation formats; top पुरस्कार include major festival awards, and as an Academy Award–qualifying festival, certain winners become eligible for Oscars consideration, although specific 2026 prize details are not fully detailed in the accessible official materials.