The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), in partnership with a distributor, is commissioning new micro-budget fiction feature films by South African filmmakers under the themes Once Upon a Family and Becoming. The call offers structured funding for development and production across film and television formats, with capped amounts per stage and a strong focus on talent development and inclusive growth.
Overview
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is inviting eligible South African filmmakers to submit proposals for new micro-budget fiction feature films.
This commissioning initiative is delivered in collaboration with a distributor and focuses on original storytelling aligned with two core themes: Once Upon a Family and Becoming.
The programme forms part of NFVF’s broader mandate to fund, develop, produce, market, and distribute South African film and television content while strengthening industry capacity and diversity.
Core Themes Explained
Once Upon a Family
This theme explores family structures, relationships, heritage, conflict, and transformation within South African or universal contexts.
Stories may focus on identity, generational dynamics, belonging, or the evolving meaning of family.
Becoming
This theme centres on personal or collective transformation.
It may explore coming-of-age narratives, self-discovery, social change, resilience, or the journey toward purpose, identity, or empowerment.
What the NFVF Funds
The NFVF provides funding support across multiple formats and stages of production.
It supports both fiction and documentary content, as well as television development.
Development Funding Caps
Maximum funding available at the development stage:
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Feature films: up to R200,000
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Documentaries: up to R100,000
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Short films: up to R100,000
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Television concepts: up to R200,000
Development funding typically supports scriptwriting, research, concept development, and packaging.
Production Funding Caps
Maximum funding available at the production stage:
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Feature films: up to R1,200,000
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Documentaries: up to R200,000
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Short films: up to R200,000
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Television pilots: up to R200,000
Production funding supports the actual making of the project, including principal photography and post-production.
Formats and Stages Supported
The NFVF funds projects at specific stages depending on format.
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Feature films: development and production
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Documentaries: development and production
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Short films: development and production
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Television concepts: development only
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Television pilots: production only
Both full-length and short-form projects are eligible, provided they meet the programme criteria.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Applicants must be South African filmmakers who meet NFVF eligibility requirements.
Eligible Applicants Include
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Emerging and established South African filmmakers
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First-time filmmakers (through general funding streams)
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Filmmakers applying under micro-budget feature film commissioning
First-Time Filmmaker Support
In addition to general funding streams, first-time filmmakers may also access targeted support through the annual First Time Filmmaker Programme.
This programme provides additional development, mentorship, and funding opportunities.
NFVF’s Broader Mandate and Role
Beyond direct funding, the NFVF plays a strategic role in the South African film and television sector.
Its responsibilities include:
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Funding development, production, marketing, and distribution of films
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Supporting international representation and market access for South African films
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Conducting industry research and producing film and television statistics
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Developing local audiences for South African content
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Building skills and talent across the industry
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Prioritising inclusion and advancement of previously disadvantaged groups
How to Apply
Applicants seeking NFVF funding must follow a formal submission process.
Application Process
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Download the relevant NFVF application form
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Carefully follow the submission guidelines
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Complete all required sections of the application
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Prepare four printed copies of the completed application
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Submit the application by post, courier, or hand delivery
Applications must be delivered to the National Film and Video Foundation offices.
Incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications may not be considered.
Important Application Notes
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Funding amounts are capped and vary by format and stage
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Applicants should apply only for the relevant stage of their project
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Proposals must clearly align with the stated themes where applicable
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Strong storytelling, feasibility, and production planning are critical
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying for the wrong funding stage or format
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Exceeding the maximum funding caps
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Submitting incomplete application documents
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Failing to align the proposal with the stated commissioning themes
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Ignoring submission format and delivery requirements
Why This Opportunity Matters
This micro-budget commissioning initiative creates a pathway for South African filmmakers to develop and produce original feature films with industry support.
By combining funding, distribution collaboration, and talent development, the NFVF strengthens local storytelling, industry sustainability, and global visibility for South African cinema.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for this NFVF commissioning call?
Eligible South African filmmakers, including first-time and emerging filmmakers, may apply if they meet NFVF requirements.
What themes must the projects address?
Projects must align with either Once Upon a Family or Becoming.
What is the maximum production funding for feature films?
Feature films may receive up to R1,200,000 at the production stage.
Are documentaries eligible?
Yes. Documentaries are supported at both development and production stages, with specific funding caps.
Does the NFVF support marketing and distribution?
Yes. The NFVF supports marketing and distribution and assists filmmakers with international representation.
Can first-time filmmakers apply?
Yes. First-time filmmakers may apply through general funding streams and may also access additional support through the First Time Filmmaker Programme.
How must applications be submitted?
Applications must be printed in four copies and submitted by post, courier, or hand delivery to the NFVF offices.
Conclusion
The NFVF Micro-Budget Film Commission offers a structured and accessible funding opportunity for South African filmmakers to bring meaningful stories to life.
With defined themes, clear funding caps, and support across development, production, and distribution, the programme plays a critical role in advancing South African film talent and strengthening the national audiovisual industry.
For more information, visit NFVF.
