DFM ACCESS (Durban FilmMart Institute)
DFM Access is an entry-level programme for South African producers who have never before pitched at a market or participated in an international lab. It is the first step in the Durban FilmMart Institute’s structured pathway for emerging producers. The programme runs from approximately May to August each year, with applications typically opening in April.
Deadline
Check DFM website for current cycle — programme typically opens June each year
Cost
Free
Eligibility
Entry-level South African producers who have not pitched at a market or participated at an international lab before.
Watch durbanfilmmart.co.za from April 2026 for the DFM Access call to open. Cost: Free. 31 DFM BUSINESS LAB (Durban FilmMart Institute) South Africa | Emerging Producer Development | African Passport Holders | Free | ~June 2026 opens (August 2026–January 2027) The DFM Business Lab is a six-month professional development programme for early-career African producers. It is designed for those who have already produced films but have limited formal industry training or business development experience. Directors or scriptwriters seeking to transition into producing are explicitly welcome to apply. Applications typically open in June with the programme running from August through to January of the following year. Who can apply: Producers with African passports who have produced films and have no more than five years’ experience in the industry. Directors or scriptwriters who want to transition to producing are welcome to apply. CALENDAR REMINDER: Watch durbanfilmmart.co.za from June 2026 for the DFM Business Lab call to open. Cost: Free. 32 FUTURE MENTORS (Durban FilmMart Institute) South Africa | Senior Filmmaker Mentorship Development | Free | ~August 2026 opens (November 2026 programme) Future Mentors is a programme for experienced African film industry practitioners who are ready to transition into mentorship roles. Unlike all other programmes in this guide, Future Mentors does not require an active film project — acceptance is based entirely on the applicant’s professional profile and experience. The programme is notable for its explicit requirement that applicants already have a substantial track record in the industry, making it one of the most senior-facing opportunities in the DFM suite. Who can apply: Filmmakers with experience as producers, script/story consultants, story editors or creative producers. Applicants must have a film credit in one of these roles on at least two feature-length films (documentary and/or fiction), have been active in the film industry for at least five years, and have attended development labs and programmes or have a history of training experience working with grassroots training 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. programmes. African film industry professionals based outside Africa must advise what percentage of their work is based within the continent. No active film project is required. Regional or language specificities may apply. CALENDAR REMINDER: Watch durbanfilmmart.co.za from August 2026 for the Future Mentors call to open. Programme takes place November 2026. Cost: Free.
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