African Film
Opportunities.
Screenwriting labs, co-production funds, and pitch forums — curated for African creators worldwide.
In partnership with
New This Week
3 new
We Are Human Festival — Film & AI International Open Call 2026
The We Are Human Festival is a new Paris-based international film festival exploring the connections between artificial intelligence, audiovisual creation and human rights. Its inaugural 2026 edition is built around Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights ("All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights…") and invites filmmakers, artists and creators worldwide to submit short human/AI hybrid works (1–10 min). The festival is structured on a 30-year vision — one UDHR article per edition.
NFVF Cycle 1 Funding 2026/2027 — Production & Development Call
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), South Africa’s statutory film funding body, has opened its call for Cycle 1 funding applications for the 2026/2027 financial year. The call covers both production and development funding across the NFVF’s funding categories.
AXS Film Fund
An annual grant from AXS Lab (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) supporting independent documentary filmmakers and nonfiction new-media creators living with disabilities, with priority for creators from historically underserved racial and ethnic communities. Awards up to $10,000 to 3–5 creators per year to help finish projects at any stage of production.
Accepting Applications
64 openWe Are Human Festival — Film & AI International Open Call 2026
NFVF Cycle 1 Funding 2026/2027 — Production & Development Call
🇮🇹 FVG Film Fund — Second Call 2026 (Friuli Venezia Giulia)
AFAC Cinema Grant Program 2026 — Arab Fund for Arts and Culture
VII Foundation Film Lab — Fully-Funded Filmmaking Fellowships
Red Sea Fund — Development, Production & Post-Production Funding
GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION — CONTENT DEVELOPMENT FUND
GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION — MARKETING & DISTRIBUTION FUND
GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION — PRODUCTION FUND
Lens of Change: Open Call for Young Filmmakers (AU-EU Youth Voices Lab)
How to Submit Your Film for the Nigerian Cinema Awards
The AU-EU Youth Voices Lab - Power of the Collective for young ...
Curious Refuge AI Film School
Call for Animation and Media Arts ‘BLIND SPOT’
Call for writing, photography, film/video
XR-projects, documentary & animated film Call!
Artivism Reloaded: Women Using AR & VR to Tell Untold African Stories
Warri International Film Festival (WARRIFF) 2026 – Call for Entries
LIFACC 2026 – Lagos International Film and Cinema Convention
Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF) – Nigeria
Film Independent Amplifier Fellowship
Filmmakers Without Borders – Teaching Fellowship
The call for applications for the second cycle of the North Africa ...
Quad-A Academy: Fourth Edition 2026 | ::: QUAD - A | GROUP :::
TFC Fiscal Sponorship: Funding Opportunities - The Film Collaborative
West African Funding Summit 2026 | WAFS - Accra, Ghana
AFAC launches call for applications for 2nd cycle of NACP
Open Cities wants to transform independent cinema from Cascais
MATATU FILM LAB - Film Possible
OPEN CITIES ACCELERATOR — AI-ENABLED FILMMAKER ACCELERATOR (LISBON)
OMNI INTERNATIONAL AI FILM FESTIVAL (Sydney, Australia)
AI MOVIE AWARDS (AIMA) — MALLORCA, SPAIN
AARON AWARDS — AI IN ADVERTISING & BRAND INNOVATION
AIFFI — INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL FOR AI-GENERATED SHORT FILMS (Roatán, Honduras)
SOTAMBE — ZAMBIA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (ZAMIFF) 2026
AFRICAJARC 2026 — African Short Film Competition
VIDEO CONSORTIUM — SOLUTIONS STORYTELLING PROJECT: AFRICA 2026
UNESCO / TAMAYOUZ CINEMA FOUNDATION RESIDENCY (Morocco)
GOTHAM WEEK PROJECT MARKET (New York)
ZIFF — ZANZIBAR INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (Festival of the Dhow Countries)
CARTHAGE FILM FESTIVAL — JCC (Journées Cinématographiques de Carthage)
DISCOP (Pan-African Content Market)
ANNECY MIFA PITCHES (International Animation Film Market)
ALTER-CINÉ FOUNDATION DOCUMENTARY GRANTS
AI FILM AWARDS — CANNES 2026 (3rd Edition)
METAMORPH AI AWARD 2026
RUNWAY HUNDRED FILM FUND
AFRICA NO FILTER / KEKERE STORYTELLERS FUND
CPH:FORUM (CPH:DOX Copenhagen Documentary Festival)
ACP-EU CULTURE PROGRAMME
AFRIFF (Africa International Film Festival, Lagos)
DOCUBOX — EAST AFRICAN DOCUMENTARY FILM FUND
FESPACO (Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou)
ITVS OPEN CALL (Independent Television Service / PBS)
NFVF PRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT FUNDING (National Film and Video Foundation, South Africa)
JUMPSTART (Durban FilmMart Institute)
HUBERT BALS FUND (HBF)
AI Filmmaking
16 listingsFestivals, funds, and awards for AI-powered creators
We Are Human Festival — Film & AI International Open Call 2026
30 September 2026OMNI INTERNATIONAL AI FILM FESTIVAL (Sydney, Australia)
THE [ESC] AWARDS — ESCAPE AI MEDIA (John Gaeta / The Matrix)
AI MOVIE AWARDS (AIMA) — MALLORCA, SPAIN
BIONIC AWARDS — AI FILM FESTIVAL FOR BOLD STORYTELLERS (London)
WORLD AI FILM FESTIVAL (WAIFF) — CANNES 2026
AARON AWARDS — AI IN ADVERTISING & BRAND INNOVATION
AIFFI — INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL FOR AI-GENERATED SHORT FILMS (Roatán, Honduras)
CHROMA AWARDS (ElevenLabs)
AI FILM AWARDS — CANNES 2026 (3rd Edition)
METAMORPH AI AWARD 2026
AI FOR GOOD FILM FESTIVAL (ITU / United Nations)
1 BILLION FOLLOWERS SUMMIT — AI FILM AWARD (Dubai)
NAIJA AI FILM FESTIVAL (NAIFF)
RUNWAY HUNDRED FILM FUND
RUNWAY AI FESTIVAL (AIF 2026)
Now Screening
Trailers & first looks from African cinema
'And She Didn't Die' Trailer: Kethiwe Ngcobo's 8th Adiaha Award Winner
10 Jun 2026
'Mother City' Trailer: Miki Redelinghuys and Pearlie Joubert's 2025 Adiaha Award Winner
10 Jun 2026
'Our Land, Our Freedom' Trailer: Zippy Kimundu and Meena Nanji's 2024 Adiaha Award Winner
10 Jun 2026
‘Low Expectations:’ Marie Ulven & Anders Danielsen Lie Lead Buzzy Norwegian Directors’ Fortnight Title — First Look Clip
8 May 2026
Exclusive Trailer: 'Taxi Moto' by Gaël Kamilindi
19 Mar 2026
Trailer Debut: 'Soumsoum, la nuit des astres' — Mauritania
19 Mar 2026
Trailer: "God's Work" Heads to the 8th Joburg Film Festival
19 Mar 2026
Trailer: "Paradise" dir. Jérémy Comte, Berlinale 2026
19 Mar 2026
Trailer: "Eagles of the Republic" Lands in U.S. Cinemas April 17 via Cohen Media Group
27 Feb 2026
Canal+ Drops First Trailer for "A Prophet"
23 Feb 2026From the Industry
All news'And She Didn't Die' wins the 8th Adiaha Award for Best Documentary by an African Woman
Kethiwe Ngcobo's portrait of her mother, exiled feminist writer Lauretta Ngcobo, takes the Ladima Foundation's flagship documentary prize — and a screening slot at AFRIKAMERA 2026 in Berlin this November.
Makgano Mamabolo and Yemi Oyefuwa Selected for European Showrunner Training 2026
Ghana Launches Revised National Cultural Policy, But Full Document Has Not Been Released
SlateOne.Studio
AI-powered script breakdown platform for film producers. Automates the pre-production breakdown process that traditionally takes 3 days to 2 weeks of manual work. **Core value prop:** Reduces 9-hour manual breakdowns to ~10 minutes. Saves ~$40k equivalent effort per production. R10k–R30k saved per breakdown in SA market terms. **Pricing:** $49/month for unlimited breakdowns. **Trial offer:** 1 free breakdown — no account, no commitment. Send a script, get it back broken down.
African & Diasporic Audience Development Think Tank at Cannes: 40 Practitioners, Six Tables, One Question
‘Diddy: The Reckoning’ Director’s Biggest Challenge Was ‘Cutting Through Social Media’ Noise to Get to the Truth
Never Miss an Opportunity
Free — no spamThree curated newsletters to keep African filmmakers ahead of every deadline, trend, and opportunity.
Film Resource Africa
newsletter@filmresourceafrica.com
FRA Weekly: 12 New Opportunities + 3 Closing This Week
Opportunities by Region
View allAll Opportunities
We Are Human Festival — Film & AI International Open Call 2026
The We Are Human Festival is a new Paris-based international film festival exploring the connections between artificial intelligence, audiovisual creation and human rights. Its inaugural 2026 edition is built around Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights ("All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights…") and invites filmmakers, artists and creators worldwide to submit short human/AI hybrid works (1–10 min). The festival is structured on a 30-year vision — one UDHR article per edition.
AXS Film Fund
An annual grant from AXS Lab (a 501(c)(3) nonprofit) supporting independent documentary filmmakers and nonfiction new-media creators living with disabilities, with priority for creators from historically underserved racial and ethnic communities. Awards up to $10,000 to 3–5 creators per year to help finish projects at any stage of production.
🇮🇹 FVG Film Fund — Second Call 2026 (Friuli Venezia Giulia)
Italian regional production fund administered by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission. Unusually for an Italian regional fund, it is explicitly open to non-EU production companies — including African producers — as sole producer, co-producer, or executive producer. The fund subsidises a percentage of project spend incurred in the FVG region (north-east Italy, bordering Slovenia and Austria), so the project must place a credible component in the territory: shoot, post-production, scoring, animation pipeline, sound mix, or archival research. This is the second of three 2026 calls (28 Feb / 30 June / 30 Sep).
AFAC Cinema Grant Program 2026 — Arab Fund for Arts and Culture
Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC) Cinema Grant for fiction and documentary feature and short/medium films. Covers development, production and post-production phases. Open to Arab directors and producers across the Arab region and diaspora — includes Arab North Africa (Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Sudan, Mauritania). This is the Cinema Grant, distinct from the AFAC Documentary Film Program (separate grant, separate deadline).
VII Foundation Film Lab — Fully-Funded Filmmaking Fellowships
Fully-funded fellowships teaching filmmaking, media literacy, and technology to underserved students across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Fellows spend 2–6 months embedded in partner communities.
Red Sea Fund — Development, Production & Post-Production Funding
The Red Sea Fund supports development, production, and post-production across four annual cycles. Has backed 280+ films since 2021. Strong focus on African and Middle Eastern filmmakers, but open globally.
Hot Docs–Blue Ice Docs Fund (African Documentary)
One of the most prestigious documentary funds for African filmmakers. A partnership between Hot Docs (Canada) and Blue Ice Docs (South Africa), providing development grants up to $10,000 CAD and production grants up to $40,000 CAD to 4-10 projects annually. Up to 5 funded projects join a year-long mentorship with labs at Hot Docs and Durban FilmMart/DIFF. The fund also collaborates with The New York Times Op-Docs to commission shorts from African filmmakers. 100 projects from 26 countries funded to date. Alumni include films selected at Cannes, Sundance, TIFF, Berlinale and IDFA.
GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION — CONTENT DEVELOPMENT FUND
The GFC Content Development Fund supports the early-stage development of film and audio-visual content in Gauteng. The GFC aims to significantly increase the number of participants involved in the development, production and distribution of independently made films to realise the sector's full job preservation and creation potential. A key priority is to transform the sector and increase ownership and participation by black filmmakers, young filmmakers and female filmmakers by facilitating a film incubation model and enterprise support programmes.
GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION — MARKETING & DISTRIBUTION FUND
The GFC Marketing & Distribution Fund supports South African filmmakers with festival attendance, participation, and distribution of their films. It covers attendance at local festivals that serve as launching pads for South African films, international festivals that offer entry into the world cinema market, career-enhancing networking opportunities, and master classes or professional development programmes not available any other way.
GAUTENG FILM COMMISSION — PRODUCTION FUND
The GFC Production Fund provides financial support for the development and production of audio-visual content in Gauteng Province, South Africa. It funds feature films, drama, documentaries, short films, animation, and digital media projects. The fund prioritises stories that raise consciousness in communities, cover heritage, and display the strength, originality and uniqueness of South African stories. Productions should promote patriotism and tell compelling positive SA stories. Documentaries may submit a detailed outline instead of a script but must provide proof of consent from subjects and participants.
Lens of Change: Open Call for Young Filmmakers (AU-EU Youth Voices Lab)
**A rolling recruitment campaign** for emerging filmmakers across Africa and Europe to join the AU–EU Youth Voices Lab database. Selected filmmakers will be engaged on a project basis to: - Document youth-led advocacy and community impact - Produce short documentaries (3–15 minutes) - Create social media edits and event highlights - Amplify voices of young people driving social transformation **Grants range from €765 to €1800 per project** with opportunities for international collaboration and portfolio expansion.
Cross Continental Forum 2026 - July & September
A forum focused on decolonising coproduction practices in film and media, bringing together African filmmakers with international partners to create equitable collaborations. The Cross Continental Forum aims to challenge traditional power dynamics in film production and foster more inclusive storytelling.
How to Submit Your Film for the Nigerian Cinema Awards
Your complete guide to eligibility, requirements and the official submission The Nigerian Cinema Awards (NCAs) is a national celebration of cinematic excellence, honoring the films, performances, and creative achievements that define the Nigerian film industry. Submitting your work for consideration is the first step toward recognition on one of the country’s most prestigious creative platforms.This guide walks you through everything you need to know—eligibility, required materials, timelines and the exact steps to submit smoothly and professionally. The NCAs welcomes submissions from every co
The AU-EU Youth Voices Lab - Power of the Collective for young ...
Applications are now open for the AU–EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective for young filmmakers programme. The AU–EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective is launching a rolling recruitment campaign to build a diverse database of emerging filmmakers across Africa and Europe. This opportunity is open to creatives aged 18-35. Selected filmmakers will join a pre-vetted network and be engaged on a project basis to document youth-led advocacy, community impact, and social transformation. Participants will produce short documentaries (3–15 minutes), social media edits, and event highlig
Curious Refuge AI Film School
An online AI film school founded by Shelby and Caleb Ward, offering curated courses in AI filmmaking, advertising, screenwriting, VFX, and documentary. The school provides a "safe space" for creators to learn AI storytelling and production techniques, with coursework involving video tutorials, AI tool training, and creating AI-generated short films as final projects. Backed by parent company Promise (supported by Google, Peter Chernin's North Road, and Michael Ovitz's Crossbeam).
Call for Animation and Media Arts ‘BLIND SPOT’
LINOLEUM Contemporary Animation and Media Art Festival is the biggest showcase of short independent animation in Ukraine. Launched in 2014 in Kyiv each year the festival screens around 250 films from all over the world, offers workshops and lectures held by the field's best players and a special program for children. LINOLEUM aims to support animation artists and promote Ukrainian animation worldwide as well as encourage and celebrate creativity among animators and media artists. In 2026 the festival will be held September 30-October 4 in Kyiv. We thank the Armed Forces of Ukraine for the oppo
Call for writing, photography, film/video
Inspired by Shirley Chisholm’s call to ‘bring a folding chair’ when there’s no seat at the table, Folding Chair is EQI’s digital journal – a space for conversations, perspectives, and storytelling on gender equality, intersectional feminism, violence against women and girls, and social justice. We seek writing (critical and personal essays and articles, research pieces, interviews, fiction and poetry), photography and film that amplifies diverse voices and perspectives, and sparks conversations that move us closer to equity. We open submissions globally in set periods throughout the year. Subm
Independent Animation Calll
Independent Animation Calll GIRAF 22 – International Festival of Independent Animation Quickdraw Animation Society (QAS) is accepting submissions to the 22nd GIRAF International Festival of Independent Animation. The organizers are looking for animation submissions, in all styles, genres, lengths, and mediums, to present to their audience in Calgary, Canada. Selected films for 2026 will be presented during GIRAF 22 and the best International and Canadian short film will be awarded. Th
XR-projects, documentary & animated film Call!
XR-projects, documentary & animated film Call! dokleipzig Send us your newest films for DOK Leipzig 2026. This year, we will celebrate the 69th DOK Leipzig edition from 26 October to 1 November 2026. Our call for films is now open and we’re looking forward to receiving your latest documentary and animated films! DOK Leipzig (Germany), held every autumn, is unique among festivals worldwide in offering a combination of documentary and animated film. During the week-long festival, we sho
Artivism Reloaded: Women Using AR & VR to Tell Untold African Stories
In the heart of a rapidly digitising Africa, a new wave of storytellers is emerging—armed not with brushes or pens, but with headsets, code, and creative fire. Across the continent, women are reimagining artivism—the blend of art and activism—through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), using these immersive technologies to amplify voices, revive suppressed histories, and craft new cultural narratives that challenge global stereotypes. This is Artivism Reloaded—a movement that merges technological innovation with deeply rooted African storytelling traditions, led by women who are r
Warri International Film Festival (WARRIFF) 2026 – Call for Entries
The 2nd edition of WARRIFF invites filmmakers from Nigeria, Africa, and across the world to submit bold, original, and powerful works. Theme: "Making The Film And Making The Money". Features screenings, master classes, panels and networking. Founded by veteran filmmaker Alex Eyengho.
LIFACC 2026 – Lagos International Film and Cinema Convention
The Lagos International Film and Cinema Convention (LIFACC) 2026 is now accepting submissions. LIFACC is a gathering of film producers, distributors, cinema owners, and industry professionals from around the world. The convention covers the full cinema ecosystem — from production to exhibition.
FESPACO 2027 – Call for Film Submissions
FESPACO (Festival Panafricain du Cinéma et de la Télévision de Ouagadougou) is THE flagship Pan-African film festival, held biennially in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso since 1969. The 2027 edition has opened its call for film submissions across all competitive sections. FESPACO is the oldest and most prestigious African film festival — winning the Étalon de Yennenga (Golden Stallion) is the highest honour in African cinema. [Enriched 2026-04-21] No FESPACO in 2026 (biennial cycle). Next edition: 27 Feb – 6 Mar 2027 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Start lobbying for SA/Pan-African presence now if curated representation is desired.
Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF) – Nigeria
The Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF) is a non-repayable grant programme by the Nigerian government supporting projects and enterprises in Nigeria's creative economy, including film, music, fashion, and technology. The fund provides direct grants to creative businesses and projects, administered through the Nigerian Creative Economy Initiative. This represents one of the first structured public grant mechanisms for the Nigerian creative sector.
Film Independent Amplifier Fellowship
A year-long fellowship from Film Independent amplifying the voices of Black or African American artists working in fiction, nonfiction, and episodic formats. Fellows receive mentorship, industry access, grant funding, and participation in Film Independent's year-round programming including the LA Film Festival and Spirit Awards. Film Independent is the non-profit behind the Spirit Awards — the leading awards for independent cinema.
Filmmakers Without Borders – Teaching Fellowship
Fully-funded fellowships to teach filmmaking, media literacy, and technology to underserved students across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Fellows spend 2–6 months embedded in partner communities, running hands-on filmmaking workshops while developing their own creative practice. The programme provides flights, accommodation, a stipend, and production equipment.
The call for applications for the second cycle of the North Africa ...
The call for applications for the second cycle of the North Africa Cultural Program (NACP) is now open. This second round of NACP (2024-2027), dedicated to five countries in North Africa (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia), comprises two support schemes: a National Cultural Opportunities Fund (NCOF), and a Regional Competitive ...
Quad-A Academy: Fourth Edition 2026 | ::: QUAD - A | GROUP :::
CAPP 2026 | Uganda | Powered by the Mastercard Foundation Raising East Africa’s Audio Standard – One Cohort at a Time Across Uganda and East Africa, creative talent is not in short supply. Musicians, filmmakers, storytellers, and content creators fill every city, town, and district. What limits how far that talent travels is often not passion; it is sound quality. Poor dialogue clarity, uncontrolled noise, weak mixing, and inconsistent loudness reduce the professional value of otherwise powerful stories and music.
TFC Fiscal Sponorship: Funding Opportunities - The Film Collaborative
home about our mission team how we work FAQs a-z site links testimonials alumni press board contact us services how we work submit your film distribution fiscal sponsorship fee-based consultation renew newsletter signup donate festival slate fiscal sponsorship fiscal sponsorship home how to apply FAQs current sponsored projects past sponsored projects funding opportunities vod
West African Funding Summit 2026 | WAFS - Accra, Ghana
Be part of the premier gathering where investors, founders and policymakers meet to unlock opportunities and scale African innovation. WAFS is the leading funding summit in West Africa, designed to bridge the gap between capital and innovation. Whether you are a startup preparing to raise, an investor scouting opportunities, a corporate exploring partnerships or a policymaker shaping the ecosystem, this is your stage. Connect with key players in the African innovation ecosystem
AFAC launches call for applications for 2nd cycle of NACP
(TAP) - The call for applications for the second cycle of the North Africa Cultural Programme (NACP) is now open, the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC) said on Monday. "Taking the five North African countries, namely Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, Libya and Morocco as primary focus, the NACP aims to ...
MATATU FILM LAB - Film Possible
Matatu Film Lab (MFL) is a comprehensive training program dedicated to cultivating and supporting emerging filmmakers. Led and conducted by a team of African and international industry experts and film mentors, the MFL covers all aspects of filmmaking, from development to distribution. Our primary objective is to equip African filmmakers with industry-standard skills and knowledge to convey their stories effectively. Our program is structured to be both theoretical and practical. We employ a creative film bootcamp approach, where participants specializing in various areas of filmmaking are tra
OPEN CITIES ACCELERATOR — AI-ENABLED FILMMAKER ACCELERATOR (LISBON)
A 3-month accelerator by former Sundance CEO Joana Vicente and Oscar-nominated producer Jason Kliot. Virtual program with script refinement, one-on-one mentorship, guided integration of AI and emerging production tools. Culminates in week-long in-person session and pitch day in Lisbon. Selected projects may receive financing and production support.
OMNI INTERNATIONAL AI FILM FESTIVAL (Sydney, Australia)
OMNI is Australia's first — and one of the world's first — dedicated festivals for generative AI films. Created in Sydney by Travis Rice (immersive tech specialist, UNSW) and Aryeh Sternberg (former ad agency executive), OMNI attracted nearly 1,000 entries to its preview event and then launched OMNI 1.0 with Mad Max director George Miller on the jury. The festival received global coverage from Deadline, ScreenHub, and Forbes. OMNI MINI: SOUNDS 2026 is currently accepting AI music video entries. Thanks to anonymous donor support, all submissions are free.
THE [ESC] AWARDS — ESCAPE AI MEDIA (John Gaeta / The Matrix)
The [esc] Awards are presented by escape.ai, a next-gen distribution and engagement platform founded by Academy Award-winner John Gaeta (The Matrix). Dubbed 'Alternative Oscars for AI Filmmakers' by Forbes, the awards celebrate creators in generative AI filmmaking, game engines, and immersive storytelling. The ceremony itself is groundbreaking — held as a fully immersive multiplayer experience on the web, where attendees explore a digital venue, network with others, and celebrate winners. escape.ai also serves as a distribution platform for AI-created IP.
AI MOVIE AWARDS (AIMA) — MALLORCA, SPAIN
The AI Movie Awards (AIMA) is the first AI film festival in Spain, and one of the first in Europe dedicated to AI cinema. Launching in Calvià, Mallorca, in Spring 2026, AIMA showcases short films, feature films, and experimental works created with AI tools. The festival takes a humanistic perspective on the future of audiovisual storytelling, honouring the pioneers of AI-driven cinema and rewarding innovation, artistic vision, and new storytelling languages. Founded by Federico Luglio.
AARON AWARDS — AI IN ADVERTISING & BRAND INNOVATION
The Aaron Awards celebrates the fusion of human creativity and artificial intelligence in global advertising and brand innovation. Named in the spirit of pioneering AI art, the awards recognise world-leading AI-powered creativity across narrative, real-time brand experiences, speculative ads, and more. Categories span AI-driven branded content, experimental advertising, and commercial innovation.
AIFFI — INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL FOR AI-GENERATED SHORT FILMS (Roatán, Honduras)
AIFFI® is the first international film festival in Central America exclusively dedicated to cinema created with artificial intelligence. The inaugural edition takes place April 17–18, 2026, on the Caribbean island of Roatán, Honduras. AIFFI combines a competitive film programme with a destination festival experience, framed by the vibrant identity and natural beauty of the island. Categories include Best AI Short Film, Best AI Animation, Best AI Music Video, and more.
SOTAMBE — ZAMBIA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (ZAMIFF) 2026
SOTAMBE (meaning 'come and watch' in local language) is the largest film festival in Zambia, now in its 13th edition. ZAMIFF promotes Southern African filmmakers and is known for its hospitality and networking opportunities. The festival features competitive sections for features, shorts, documentaries, and animation, with a special focus on Southern African cinema.
AFRICAJARC 2026 — African Short Film Competition
AFRICARJARC is a cinema programme by Création Africa that supports African filmmakers through residencies, mentoring, and co-production facilitation. The programme brings together African creators with international partners to develop and produce feature and short film projects. Création Africa is a pan-African initiative that connects creative talent across the continent.
VIDEO CONSORTIUM — SOLUTIONS STORYTELLING PROJECT: AFRICA 2026
A collaborative storytelling fellowship from the Video Consortium, supported by the Skoll Foundation. SSP Africa connects regional filmmakers with social innovators across Africa to produce cinematic short documentary films that catalyse positive change. The programme pairs filmmakers with organisations working on social impact to create solutions-focused stories for a more equitable future.
UNESCO / TAMAYOUZ CINEMA FOUNDATION RESIDENCY (Morocco)
The UNESCO/Tamayouz Cinema Foundation Residency is a fully supported creative residency for young African women filmmakers, held in Morocco. The programme provides mentorship, workshops, and a creative environment for participants to develop their film projects. It is part of UNESCO's broader mandate to support cultural diversity and the creative industries in Africa. The residency is run in partnership with the Tamayouz Cinema Foundation, which focuses on empowering women in the African film industry. The programme covers accommodation, meals, and programme costs for selected participants.
GOTHAM WEEK PROJECT MARKET (New York)
Gotham Week is the annual industry event of The Gotham (formerly IFP), America's oldest and most established organisation supporting independent film. The Project Market is a curated marketplace where selected fiction and documentary projects in development or production meet with financiers, sales agents, distributors, and producers over several days of scheduled meetings. Gotham Week takes place annually in September/October in New York City. The Gotham has international partnerships including with Telefilm Canada. Projects are selected through an open application process. The Gotham also runs the Gotham Awards (formerly IFP Spirit Awards), one of the most important independent film award ceremonies.
ZIFF — ZANZIBAR INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (Festival of the Dhow Countries)
The Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), also known as the Festival of the Dhow Countries, is one of the largest cultural events in East Africa. Founded in 1997, ZIFF celebrates cinema, music, and performing arts from the Dhow Countries — the nations bordering the Indian Ocean including East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Persian Gulf, and South and Southeast Asia. The 29th season ran in 2026. ZIFF screens over 150 films and attracts an audience of 100,000+. The festival is held in the historic Stone Town of Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ZIFF runs competitive sections for feature films, documentaries, and short films, with awards in multiple categories. [Enriched 2026-04-21] 29th edition. Submissions closed 31 March 2026 — selection announcements imminent. Festival dates: 24–28 June 2026, Stone Town, Zanzibar.
CARTHAGE FILM FESTIVAL — JCC (Journées Cinématographiques de Carthage)
The Carthage Film Festival (Journées Cinématographiques de Carthage, or JCC) is the oldest film festival in both Africa and the Arab world, founded in Tunis, Tunisia in 1966. Initially biennial, it became annual in 2014. The 36th edition took place in December 2025. JCC is dedicated to cinema from the Arab world, Africa, and the Global South, with competitive sections for feature films, documentaries, and short films. The Tanit d'Or (Golden Tanit) is the festival's top prize. JCC also runs Takmil, a post-production support programme for Arab and African films. The festival is a critical platform for Francophone and North African filmmakers, complementing Marrakech (already in this guide) and FESPACO (also in this guide).
DISCOP (Pan-African Content Market)
DISCOP is a pan-African content market that connects content distributors and producers with acquisition and co-production executives through curated virtual and in-person meetings. Founded by Basic Lead, DISCOP has historically operated markets in Johannesburg and Abidjan (Ivory Coast), making it one of the longest-running dedicated African content trading platforms. The market focuses on content distribution — connecting sellers of finished content with African and international broadcasters, OTT platforms, and digital distributors. DISCOP also includes a co-production forum and training programmes. While the market has evolved from primarily in-person to include virtual components, it remains a significant platform for African content trading.
ANNECY MIFA PITCHES (International Animation Film Market)
The Annecy International Animation Film Festival, held annually in June in Annecy, France, is the world's largest and most prestigious animation event. MIFA (Marché International du Film d'Animation) is the festival's dedicated industry market, bringing together animation studios, distributors, broadcasters, and investors from around the world. MIFA Pitches allow selected projects to present to international buyers and financiers across four categories. African animation is experiencing rapid growth, with studios like Triggerfish (South Africa), Kugali (Nigeria), and others producing content for Netflix, Disney+, and other global platforms. MIFA is where the global animation industry does business.
ALTER-CINÉ FOUNDATION DOCUMENTARY GRANTS
The Alter-Ciné Foundation was created in 2001 in memory of Canadian documentary filmmaker Yvan Patry, co-founder of the production company Alter-Ciné, who directed numerous documentaries and current affairs programmes in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Each year, the Foundation awards grants to documentary filmmakers from the Global South — including Africa, Asia, and Latin America — as a contribution to the production of feature-length documentary projects. In 2026, the Foundation announced two additional grants in memory of Gian-Battista Bachetta, a passionate cinephile who spent 25 years working to assist victims of armed conflict. This brings the 2026 total to four grants. The Foundation prioritises documentaries told in indigenous languages and stories about rights and freedoms.
MIP AFRICA / FAME WEEK AFRICA (Cape Town)
MIP Africa is the largest B2B content market on the African continent, held annually as part of FAME Week Africa (Film, Arts, Media and Entertainment) in Cape Town, South Africa. Organised by RX Global in partnership with Reed MIDEM (the company behind MIPCOM and MIP TV), MIP Africa brings together content buyers, commissioners, producers, distributors, and investors from across Africa and the world. The event features pre-scheduled one-to-one matchmaking meetings that guarantee face-to-face meetings with targeted buyers and commissioners. In 2026, FAME Week Africa welcomed Media Valley — Johannesburg's flagship virtual production hub and the largest virtual production stage in the southern hemisphere — as its Official Innovation Partner, signalling the growing importance of production technology infrastructure in the African content ecosystem. MIP Africa functions as the African counterpart to MIPCOM (already in this guide) and provides a dedicated platform for African content to reach global buyers.
AI FILM AWARDS — CANNES 2026 (3rd Edition)
The AI Film Awards (AI Film & Ads Awards) is an international festival held during the Cannes Film Festival, organised by KM Universe. Now in its third edition, it celebrates how AI is transforming storytelling, imagery, and modern production techniques. The Cannes timing provides unmatched visibility — your AI film screens in the same city, same week, as the world's most prestigious film festival. Categories include AI narrative films, AI commercials/ads, and experimental AI works.
METAMORPH AI AWARD 2026
The MetaMorph AI Award is a UK-based global AI film and music festival, judged by a heavyweight panel including John Rhys-Davies (Lord of the Rings, Indiana Jones), David Nutter (Game of Thrones, The Flash), and Timbaland's Stage Zero team — the AI-powered entertainment company founded by Timbaland, Rocky Mudaliar, and Zayd Portillo. Categories span AI Film, AI Animation, and AI Music. The music crossover through Stage Zero opens a unique creative avenue — AI filmmakers working with AI-generated or AI-enhanced soundtracks.
1 BILLION FOLLOWERS SUMMIT — AI FILM AWARD (Dubai)
The world's largest AI film prize — $1 million — launched in collaboration with Google's Gemini at the 1 Billion Followers Summit in Dubai. The inaugural award in 2025 was won by Tunisian filmmaker Zoubeir Jlassi for his short film Lily, created entirely with Google Gemini tools. The award was presented by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. This prize proves that African and Arab creators can compete at the absolute highest level in AI filmmaking — and win.
NAIJA AI FILM FESTIVAL (NAIFF)
Africa's first AI film festival, founded by Nigerian filmmaker and producer Obinna Okerekeocha. Held in Lagos at Alliance Française, NAIFF received 490 submissions in its inaugural edition and featured a global showcase of AI-assisted films, panel discussions, local AI tool showcases (Switch Studio, AIstudio.ng), and Gen Jam — a training session where attendees created AI films from scratch in four hours. The festival's Best AI Long-Form Film went to Godzilla in Lagos by Nirvs AI. NAIFF is building a community to reimagine African filmmaking with AI, addressing the gap between Africa's creative talent and global infrastructure. The festival emerged just months after Makemation — Nigeria's first AI-assisted feature film — grossed ₦32 million at the box office in 4 days.
RUNWAY HUNDRED FILM FUND
A $5 million fund by Runway to finance up to 100 films that use AI in their production pipeline. The Hundred Film Fund was created because traditional funding mechanisms often overlook new and emerging visions. Grants support features, shorts, documentaries, experimental projects, music videos and more. The advisory board includes Jane Rosenthal (co-founder of Tribeca Festival, producer of The Irishman), will.i.am, Richard Kerris (VP GM Media & Entertainment at NVIDIA), and Christina Lee Storm (Governor of Television Academy's EMPG). Runway Studios provides additional production support to selected projects.
MERCK FOUNDATION FILM AWARDS 2026
The Merck Foundation Film Awards More Than a Mother is an annual competition launched in partnership with African First Ladies, inviting African filmmakers, film students, and young creative talents to submit long or short films addressing critical social issues including infertility stigma, girls education, women empowerment, child marriage, and FGM. Cash prizes awarded across categories.
AFRICA NO FILTER / KEKERE STORYTELLERS FUND
Africa No Filter is a donor collaborative focused on shifting stereotypical narratives about Africa. Its Kekere Storytellers Fund provides micro-grants to emerging African content creators whose work tells African stories beyond stereotypes of poverty, conflict, disease, poor leadership, and corruption. Supports short films (up to $5,000), feature films (up to $10,000), documentaries, digital storytelling, and youth-led content.
CPH:FORUM (CPH:DOX Copenhagen Documentary Festival)
CPH:FORUM is the flagship financing and co-production event of CPH:DOX — the Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival. Each March, approximately 30 documentary projects are selected for live pitch presentations to international financiers, broadcasters, and distributors. The 2026 edition brought together 101 directors and producers from 23 countries. Alongside IDFA Forum Pitch (Amsterdam, November) and Sheffield DocFest MeetMarket (June), CPH:FORUM completes the trio of the worlds most important documentary financing forums.
ACP-EU CULTURE PROGRAMME
The ACP-EU Culture Programme is funded by the European Union to support cultural and creative industries in African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries. It provides grants of up to 200,000 EUR or more for international co-production, film development, and distribution projects involving collaboration between ACP and European production companies. One of the largest structured co-production funding mechanisms available to African filmmakers.
AFRIFF (Africa International Film Festival, Lagos)
AFRIFF is Africas premier film festival based in Nigeria, held annually in November in Lagos. Founded in 2010 by Chioma Ude, it has grown into one of the continents most important platforms for African cinema, connecting Nollywood and West African film to international markets. AFRIFF runs a full industry programme including content licensing, co-production deals, and distribution agreements. Partnership with MTN — Africas largest telco. The NFVF sponsors a South African delegation annually.
DOCUBOX — EAST AFRICAN DOCUMENTARY FILM FUND
Docubox is the only dedicated film fund for East African documentary filmmakers. Founded in 2013 by Kenyan filmmaker Judy Kibinge, it provides development and production grants of $5,000-$20,000 to documentary, short fiction, and experimental filmmakers in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Beyond funding, Docubox runs workshops, labs, and mentorship programmes. Supported by the Hewlett Foundation and Climate Justice Resilience Fund. Alumni include The Letter, an acclaimed Kenyan documentary. Expanding to Morocco in 2025-2026.
FESPACO (Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou)
FESPACO is Africas oldest and largest film festival, founded in 1969 in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. It is the continents most important celebration of African cinema, operating on a biennial cycle (odd years). The festival accepts for competition only films by African filmmakers — the only major international-class festival with an exclusively African competition. The Golden Stallion of Yennenga is Africas most prestigious film award. The 29th edition (2025) attracted over 100,000 audience. The 30th edition is confirmed for February/March 2027. Call for submissions opened 7 February 2026.
ITVS OPEN CALL (Independent Television Service / PBS)
The Independent Television Service (ITVS) funds and presents independent documentaries on PBS — Americas public broadcasting network reaching 120 million viewers. Its Open Call offers up to $400,000 in co-production funding for independent documentary films, from shorts to features, on any subject and in any style. This is the single largest documentary production fund in this guide. ITVS funding comes with PBS broadcast rights in the US.
SUNDANCE DOCUMENTARY FUND
The Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program, established in 2002 with founding support from the Open Society Foundations, supports nonfiction filmmakers worldwide in the production of cinematic documentaries on contemporary themes. Grants of $15,000 to $50,000 for documentary projects at development, production, and post-production stages. This is separate from the Sundance Screenwriters Lab and Episodic Lab. In September 2025, 32 grantees were announced. At Sundance 2026, African filmmakers Olive Nwosu (Nigeria), Bea Wangondu (Kenya), and Praise Odigie Paige (Nigeria) participated prominently.
NFVF PRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT FUNDING (National Film and Video Foundation, South Africa)
The National Film and Video Foundation is a South African government agency mandated by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture to support the development, production, marketing, and distribution of South African films. It is the primary public funding body for the South African film industry. The NFVF operates multiple funding tiers: Development Funding for script development; Production Funding for features, documentaries, shorts, and animation including a dedicated tier for first-time filmmakers; Training Provider Grants; and Marketing and Distribution support for international festivals and markets. [Enriched 2026-04-21] Open call across Production (Tiers 1 & 2), Post-Production, and Tier 3 development & production funding. Tier 3 targets represented-individual segment. Cycle 1 active for 2025/2026 financial year.
NEXT NARRATIVE AFRICA FUND (NNAF)
The Next Narrative Africa Fund is a mission-driven content and media investment vehicle targeting $50 million in total capitalization — $40 million commercial content fund paired with $10 million from its non-profit Venture Studio — to support commercially viable audio-visual content made on the African continent by African and African-diaspora storytellers. Founded in late 2024 by Akunna Cook, a former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, NNAF aims to shift the global perception of the African continent by industrializing the African narrative. The advisory board includes Talitha Watkins of ColorCreative Management (Issa Rae). NNAF partnered with Parrot Analytics on a first-of-its-kind African entertainment landscape study. On 13 March 2026, NNAF unveiled its first slate — selected from 2,000+ submissions — including projects involving Trevor Noah, Rapman (Blue Story, Supacell), and Mohamed Kordofani (Goodbye Julia, Cannes Un Certain Regard Freedom Prize 2023).
JUMPSTART (Durban FilmMart Institute)
Attagirl was a global feature film development lab for female and non-binary filmmakers, created and run by For Film’s Sake (Australia) with major funding from Screen Australia’s Enterprise Business and Ideas programme, and supported by the British Film Institute, Telefilm Canada, Swedish Film Institute, TIFF, Sydney Film Festival, and multiple Australian state screen agencies. Created by For Film’s Sake Executive Director Sophie Mathisen. The 10-month programme worked with creative teams (producer/director/writer) on three content pillars: story, market, and audience. It included workshops integrated with TIFF and Sydney Film Festival, and each team was assigned an international project mentor and access to script, audience, and financial consultants. Teams from Australia, Canada, UK, South Africa, Portugal, Scotland, Sweden, New Zealand, and others participated. Cash prizes were awarded to selected projects at completion. Current Status — Important Caution ⚠ ATTAGIRL APPEARS TO HAVE CONCLUDED AFTER ITS SECOND EDITION (2021–2022). No evidence of a third edition, new call for applications, or new cohort has been found in any search results, press coverage, or on the programme’s own website (attagirl.online) as of March GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR AFRICAN FILM & SERIES MAKERS | 2025/2026 EDITION | Updated March 2026 Compiled March 2026 directed by Cati Weinek with Fab Claude.. Always verify deadlines and eligibility on official programme websites before applying. 2026. The Screen Australia Enterprise programme that funded it was project-specific. For Film’s Sake’s own website and LinkedIn show no recent Attagirl activity. What is confirmed: Edition 1 (2020/21) ran with 13 international projects. Edition 2 (2021/22) ran with 7 teams, concluding July 2022 with AUD 35,000 in prizes. A Pilot Report gathering data from both editions was in preparation as of 2022. No Edition 3 has been announced or evidenced. This guide does not include it as an active opportunity. However, because it was genuinely significant for global female and non-binary filmmakers — and did include a South African participant in Edition 2 — it is documented here so you know it existed and can monitor whether it re-launches.
MARRAKECH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL — ATLAS
The Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM) — one of the most prominent film festivals in Africa and the Arab world, founded in 2001 by HM King Mohammed VI — runs a full industry ecosystem called Atlas Programs. The flagship is the Atlas Workshops (Ateliers de l’Atlas), launched in 2018. Now in its 8th edition (2025) and entering its 9th in 2026, it is the primary industry platform for emerging GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR AFRICAN FILM & SERIES MAKERS | 2025/2026 EDITION | Updated March 2026 Compiled March 2026 directed by Cati Weinek with Fab Claude.. Always verify deadlines and eligibility on official programme websites before applying. Moroccan, Arab, and African filmmakers, running five days onsite in Marrakech alongside the main festival every November/December. The 2025 (8th) edition selected 28 projects from 12 countries and brought together 350 international professionals for more than 525 one-on-one co-production market meetings — a record since the programme’s creation. Eight of the 28 projects received awards totalling EUR 120,000. Atlas Programs now encompasses: Atlas Workshops (development and post-production support for Arab and African filmmakers); Atlas Distribution Meetings (launched 2025 — four-day event bringing 60 distribution professionals from the Arab world, Africa, and Europe to discover Arab and African films); Atlas Station (Moroccan-specific professional development); and Atlas Press (film criticism training). The festival is chaired by HRH Prince Moulay Rachid. Artistic Director Rémi Bonhomme actively positions Marrakech as a bridge between African, Arab, and global cinema. The 23rd FIFM is confirmed for 20–28 November 2026.
ASIA TV FORUM & MARKET (ATF)
The Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF) is Asia's leading international content market, held every December at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, with participants from 60+ countries. ATF runs the ATF In-Development Club — a pitch session for global series and film projects. December timing (after MIPCOM, before the US market season) makes it the last major deal-making event of the year. African content has participated and Asian streamers are increasingly interested in African stories, particularly via Nollywood's expanding digital distribution partnerships with Southeast Asian platforms. Singapore is increasingly connected to African content markets. ATF is more
IDFA FORUM PITCH
The IDFA Forum Pitch is the co-production and co-financing market at the heart of IDFA — the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam, the world's largest documentary festival with 295,000 visits and 3,000 industry professionals each November. African documentary filmmakers submit a documentary project that is in production (not yet in post) for the Forum Pitch. If selected, the project is presented live to international broadcasters, distributors, and financiers. The selection committee explicitly considers geography and seeks a balanced global selection. Each selected project is listed in a printed IDFA Forum publication distributed to all Forum passholders, and the trailer is made available to all registered industry professionals before the event.
MIPCOM / MIP MARKETS
MIPCOM is the world's largest international television and content market, held every October in Cannes. 12,000 delegates from 100+ countries. It is where Netflix, Amazon, Disney+, Canal+, ARTE, and hundreds more come to buy content. There is no open competitive pitch — it is a trade market. The most important entry point for African filmmakers is the MIP SDG Awards — a free-to-enter competition recognising content addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. African stories on climate resilience, health, education, gender equality, and justice are uniquely positioned to win. South African ETV, Nollywood producers, and Kenyan production companies have all had presence at MIPCOM. The NFVF (South Africa) and other African national film commissions organise delegation support and shared stand space.
HUBERT BALS FUND (HBF)
The Hubert Bals Fund is the grant programme of the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) — one of the world's most prestigious festivals. Named after IFFR founder Hubert Bals (who died in 1988), it was established in his honour to support innovative cinema from regions where film industries are underfunded. With an annual budget of approximately EUR 1.2 million, it operates two grant rounds per year and has supported hundreds of African films across its 37-year history. African filmmakers apply directly — no Dutch partner required for the initial development grant.
BERLINALE TALENTS
GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR AFRICAN FILM & SERIES MAKERS | 2025/2026 EDITION | Updated March 2026 Compiled March 2026 directed by Cati Weinek with Fab Claude.. Always verify deadlines and eligibility on official programme websites before applying. Berlinale Talents is the talent development programme of the Berlin International Film Festival — one of the three most prestigious film festivals in the world. Every year, exactly 200 emerging film professionals from across the globe are selected for a 6-day intensive programme of talks, workshops, project development labs, and networking during the Berlinale in February. Founded in 2003 by Berlinale Director Dieter Kosslick (originally called Berlinale Talent Campus), it now has over 10,000 alumni from 120+ countries. In 2026, 200 participants were selected from 3,438 applications worldwide. African selections in 2026 included: South African director/screenwriter Ryan Kruger, Nigerian director/screenwriter Dika Ofoma, Kenya-based Sudanese filmmaker Ibrahim Snoopy (also a Sundance alumnus), Kenyan editor/screenwriter Charity Kuria, plus filmmakers from Egypt and Ghana.
RED SEA FEATURE FILMS PROGRAM
The Red Sea Feature Films Program (formerly called The Lodge) is a 10-month intensive creative and professional training programme run by Red Sea Labs, a division of the Red Sea Film Foundation in Saudi Arabia. Run in partnership with TorinoFilmLab (Italy), it takes selected filmmaker teams from early concept all the way through to a market-ready film pitch. Founded in 2020, it entered its 7th edition in 2025. Since 2023, African filmmakers are explicitly included. The programme culminates at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Jeddah with a pitch to distributors, financiers, and producers — with a prize pool of up to USD 200,000.