The Canary Islands International Film Market (CIIF Market) is a pulsating hub of creativity, where global filmmakers, producers, and investors converge to spark co-productions and propel audiovisual projects onto the world stage. Held annually in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this event transforms the island’s vibrant capital into a cinematic crossroads, blending stunning volcanic backdrops with cutting-edge industry insights. As the 21st edition wraps up on October 31, 2025—just in time for Tenerife’s Halloween festivities—it’s a perfect moment to dive into what makes CIIF Market essential for aspiring creators and film enthusiasts. Whether you’re a producer eyeing international partnerships or a local curious about Tenerife’s rising star in global entertainment, this guide unpacks the market’s legacy, highlights from 2025, and tips for getting involved.
The Evolution of CIIF Market: From EuroForum to Global Co-Production Powerhouse
Launched in 2003 as EuroForum, the Canary Islands International Film Market has grown from a modest European networking forum into a cornerstone of international audiovisual collaboration. Organized by Festeam Comunicación y Eventos S.L., it now draws producers, distributors, and financiers from across the globe to foster co-productions in feature films, documentaries, TV series, and miniseries targeted at international audiences. What started as a platform for European funding has evolved to emphasize diverse formats, innovative storytelling, and sustainable practices, reflecting the Canary Islands’ own transformation into a premier filming destination.
Sponsored by heavyweights like the Tenerife Island Council, the Canary Islands Government (via Canary Islands Film and PROEXCA), and the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, CIIF Market benefits from collaborations with the Tenerife Film Commission, the Canary Islands Audiovisual Cluster, and Macaronesia Films. Over 20 editions, it has facilitated countless deals, proving its worth as a “strategic enclave for international audiovisual creation, co-production, and investment,” as noted by director Guillermo Ríos. Today, it selects top-tier projects based on quality, viability, creative talent, and market potential, ensuring only the most promising ideas get pitched to industry heavyweights.
What’s Happening at CIIF Market 2025: Projects, Panels, and Pitching in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The 21st edition, running from October 27 to 31, 2025, at venues like the Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey Hotel, showcases 21 groundbreaking projects from eight countries, blending national, international, and Canary-focused narratives. Up to 12 projects grace the National and International Sections, while the Focus Canarias Section spotlights five local gems, all in fiction, documentary, or series formats with at least 60 minutes of runtime and 20% secured financing.
Key highlights include personalized pitching sessions, one-on-one meetings, and networking events that connect creators with distributors, investors, and experts. On October 28, panels dissected the Canary Islands’ audiovisual model, covering financing perks like tax incentives and the archipelago’s edge in international co-productions. A standout session, “Case Studies: International Co-Productions in the Canary Islands,” featured Volcano Films discussing Netflix’s La Palma (filmed in Tenerife summer 2025) and the thriller The Hive, directed by Martín Rosete—showcasing how local talent and infrastructure drive global hits.
The lineup also features filmmaker spotlights like Marco Berger, Marina Seresesky, and Omar Al Abdul Razzak, plus screenings such as Me dicen el Panzer by Rodrigo Quintero Arauz and Bajo un volcán by Hugo Martín Cuervo, shot entirely in Tenerife. With awards like the CIIF Market Santa Cruz de Tenerife Award for top international projection, Cabildo de Tenerife Award, MAFIZ Award, and post-production perks, the closing ceremony on October 31 caps a week of inspiration and deals.
Why the Canary Islands? Tax Incentives, Talent, and Tenerife’s Filming Magic
Tenerife and the Canary Islands aren’t just hosts—they’re co-stars. With a 50% tax rebate on qualifying spends (up to €12 million per project), world-class studios, diverse locations from Teide’s lunar craters to Anaga’s lush forests, and a skilled workforce, the archipelago has lured blockbusters like Wonder Woman 1984 and San Andreas. CIIF Market amplifies this by highlighting local companies like Volcano Films, which bridge Canarian expertise with international partners, generating jobs and economic boost.
Sustainability is woven in too: Panels address eco-strategies, aligning with Tenerife’s green tourism ethos. For creators, it’s a launchpad—projects here often secure funding and distribution, turning island dreams into global realities.
How to Get Involved: From Project Submissions to Attending as a Visitor
Missed 2025? Mark your calendar for 2026—calls typically open mid-year via ciifmarket.com. To submit, ensure your project is in development, international-market ready, and backed by at least 20% financing; selections prioritize innovation and team track records.
For attendees, register for networking passes to access panels, screenings, and socials. Film buffs in Tenerife can catch public screenings or volunteer through the Tenerife Film Commission. Follow @CIIFMarket on socials for updates, and explore related events like MiradasDoc or MECAS for docs and indies.
Pro tip: Pair your visit with Tenerife adventures—hike Teide post-pitch or surf El Médano for that perfect industry unwind.
As CIIF Market 2025 closes, it reaffirms Tenerife’s role as Europe’s sunny script for success. Whether forging deals or fueling passions, this market proves the Canary Islands are where stories take flight.
