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.
Deadline
Multiple call cycles per year. Check the NFVF website for current open calls.
Cost
FREE — No application fee
Format
Feature fiction, documentary, short films, animation. South African content only.
Eligibility
South African production companies with relevant experience and a credible track record. First-time filmmakers are eligible for the short film tier.
What You Get
Funding varies by tier and project. Multiple call cycles per year. First-time filmmaker short film tier available. International delegation support for festivals and markets.
What to Submit
Application form and project documentation as specified per funding tier.
Insider Tips
The NFVF is THE primary South African government film fund. If you are based in South Africa, this should be your first port of call. The first-time filmmaker short film tier is a particularly valuable entry point for emerging talent.
Check nfvf.co.za regularly for new funding call openings throughout the year.
Verify dates and eligibility on the official website before applying.
Related Opportunities
Never miss a deadline like this
Weekly deadline alerts, new opportunities, and industry insights for African filmmakers.