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.
Deadline
OPEN NOW. Deadline: 30 September 2026.
Cost
FREE — No application fee
Format
Long or short films — drama, documentary, or docudrama. Must address Merck Foundation focus themes.
Eligibility
All African filmmakers, film students, and young creative talents.
What You Get
Cash prizes across categories. Visibility through partnership with African First Ladies. Recognition as a social-impact filmmaker.
What to Submit
Completed long or short film (drama, documentary, or docudrama) addressing one of the specified social themes.
Insider Tips
The long application window (until September 2026) and broad eligibility make this accessible. The social-impact theme aligns with priorities of many international documentary funds — a Merck Foundation award strengthens applications to these larger funds.
Deadline 30 September 2026. Plenty of time to submit.
Verify dates and eligibility on the official website before applying.
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