Cheyenne Curtis Wins OIAF's Pitch THIS! With King Baby Snail
Cheyenne Curtis won the 2026 Pitch THIS! competition at the Ottawa International Animation Festival for her animated series concept King Baby Snail.
Cheyenne Curtis has won the 2026 Pitch THIS! competition at the Ottawa International Animation Festival with her animated series concept King Baby Snail, as reported by cartoonbrew.com.
The jury praised the pitch for its clear vision, heart, charming visuals, and love of snails. Curtis presented the project at The Animation Conference, OIAF's industry event.
Gino Baldeon's tiny BIG adventure was named runner-up. The two finalists advanced from eight semifinalist projects selected from more than 100 applications.
The pitching jury included Mike Barth of Jam Filled Entertainment, Lisa Cinelli of CBC, Tanya Green of Mainframe Studios, and Kirsten Hurd of TVOkids.
Curtis receives a prize package valued at CAD $11,300, including CAD $7,500 in cash, a Toon Boom Harmony Premium license and training, legal services, and passes to OIAF and TAC 2027. Pitch THIS! is presented in partnership with the Canada Media Fund and pairs emerging Canadian creators with industry mentors before they present their series concepts to producers and industry decision-makers.
Quick answers
Who won the 2026 Pitch THIS! competition?
Cheyenne Curtis won with her animated series concept King Baby Snail.
What does the winner receive?
Curtis receives a prize package valued at CAD $11,300, including CAD $7,500 in cash, a Toon Boom Harmony Premium license and training, legal services, and passes to OIAF and TAC 2027.
Who was the runner-up?
Gino Baldeon's tiny BIG adventure was named runner-up.