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.
Deadline
Applications currently closed — check back for next cycle
Verified 1 week ago
Cost
Free to apply
Format
Documentary Films (features and shorts)
Eligibility
African documentary filmmakers. Open to projects at development or production stage.
What You Get
Development grants up to $10,000 CAD or production grants up to $40,000 CAD. Year-long mentorship programme. Private filmmaker labs at Hot Docs Festival and Durban FilmMart/DIFF. Potential NY Times Op-Docs commission. Access to Hot Docs industry network.
What to Submit
Check Hot Docs website when applications reopen for current submission requirements.
Insider Tips
Strong African stories with international festival potential. The fund has a track record of backing films that go to Cannes, Sundance and TIFF. Show a clear vision and why your story matters now.
Applications currently closed. Monitor hotdocs.ca/industry/film-funds for next opening.
Verify dates and eligibility on the official website before applying.
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