DURBAN FILMMART PITCH AND FINANCE FORUM
The Durban FilmMart (DFM) is Africa's most important film and television co-production market, established in 2010 by the Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI). Named by UNESCO in its 2021 Film Trends in Africa Report as the continent's best film market. In 2025, 39 cash grants and awards worth over R2.6 million (approximately USD 140,000) were distributed to pitching projects across 31 partners. International co-producers, broadcasters, and global film funds attend specifically to find African projects ā making this the single highest-probability opportunity in this guide for African writers. Travel and accommodation to Durban are fully covered for selected participants.
Deadline
2026 live action deadline: 1 February 2026 (now closed). NEXT CALL: opens approximately November 2026.
Cost
FREE ā No submission fee
Format
Both. Feature-length live action fiction films, documentary films, animation projects, and episodic live action projects (TV and streaming series).
Eligibility
At least one key creative (producer, writer, or director) must hold an African passport or ID. A producer AND director must both be attached. Writer alone is not sufficient.
What You Get
Travel and accommodation to Durban fully covered. An individual mentor assigned to your project. One-on-one meetings with international co-producers, broadcasters, and film funds. Access to 39+ cash grants and professional awards from 31 partners. Full accreditation for the Durban FilmMart and Durban International Film Festival.
What to Submit
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. Project application form in English. Script or treatment. Proof of African citizenship for at least one key creative. Financing plan showing any committed funds.
Insider Tips
Projects with both a director and producer from Africa are significantly stronger than solo submissions. Any financing attached ā even a small development grant ā makes your project stand out. Mention any lab connection (Talents Durban, Red Sea, Locarno Open Doors) prominently. If selected, practise a 5-minute verbal pitch with a visual presentation.
Set reminder for November 2026 ā Durban FilmMart 2027 Pitch Forum call opens then.
Applications are closed
This opportunity is no longer accepting applications. Browse open opportunities
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