Visa Extends Partnership with TIFF, Boosts Local Economy
Visa Canada has renewed its partnership with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) for several years, marking nearly three decades of collaboration. The multi-year extension continues to provide cardholders with exclusive benefits, including early ticket access, priority lines, and lounges at screening venues.
The Visa Sharing the Screen program will distribute 500 complimentary tickets this September and host a talk with director Rebeca Huntt and soccer player Megan Rapinoe. This initiative is part of Visa's ongoing efforts to support local small businesses and foreign visitors during the festival.
According to Visa's transaction data, local small business spending increased 10% year-over-year in the festival zone during the 2025 event, while foreign visitor spending rose 15%. These visitors represented 20% of local commerce during the event. The number of small businesses in the festival area expanded by 30% since 2022.
Visa's President and Country Manager, Michiel Wielhouwer, expressed pride in partnering with TIFF for nearly three decades, stating, 'For nearly three decades, Visa has been proud to partner with TIFF, one of the world’s most influential film festivals.'
Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, also praised Visa's support, saying that their partnership helps create experiences that bring audiences closer to films and artists.