Deadline: 09-Nov-2026
The Saxony-Anhalt Arts Foundation supports emerging filmmakers through funding programmes focused on short film development, production, and festival presentation. The initiative helps young artists create and showcase fictional, documentary, and experimental short films, with additional mentoring opportunities for first-time projects.
Funding is available for script development, film production, and participation in national and international film festivals, with priority given to filmmakers connected to Saxony-Anhalt.
What Is the Saxony-Anhalt Short Film Funding Programme?
The Saxony-Anhalt Arts Foundation provides financial support for emerging filmmakers working on short film projects.
The programme is designed to strengthen the regional film sector by helping artists move from early creative ideas to completed films and public presentation.
The funding supports:
- Short film script development
- Film project preparation
- Short film production
- Festival participation
- Creative development support
The programme encourages different forms of short films, including:
- Fiction films
- Documentaries
- Experimental films
Projects should generally have a maximum duration of 30 minutes.
Main Objectives of the Programme
The funding programme aims to:
- Support emerging filmmakers
- Encourage new artistic voices
- Strengthen short film production in Saxony-Anhalt
- Promote innovative storytelling
- Increase visibility of regional filmmakers
- Support participation in film festivals
Supported Funding Areas
Script and Project Development Support
The development programme supports filmmakers who are preparing new short film ideas.
Funding is provided as a scholarship.
Grant details:
- Duration: 3 months
- Monthly support: €1,500
- Total possible support: €4,500
The funding helps artists develop:
- Screenplays
- Film concepts
- Creative approaches
- Project plans
Production Funding Under the “Daring-Courageous” Programme
The “Daring-Courageous” programme supports the production of short films.
Eligible projects may receive funding for:
- Filming activities
- Production expenses
- Creative implementation
- Technical requirements
Funding conditions:
- Covers up to 90% of total production costs
- Maximum grant amount: €20,000
Projects must not begin production before the application is submitted.
Early project commencement is only allowed if prior approval has been granted.
Festival Presentation Support
Completed short films may receive support for presentation at film festivals.
The programme supports participation in:
- National festivals
- International festivals
Funding details:
- Fixed grant amount
- Maximum support: €2,000
The support helps filmmakers increase visibility and reach professional audiences.
Who Is Eligible?
The programme is open to filmmakers and artists connected to Saxony-Anhalt.
Eligible applicants include:
- Self-employed filmmakers
- Independent artists
- Producers
- Production companies
- Film professionals with regional project connections
Applicants must either:
- Have their main residence in Saxony-Anhalt, or
- Work on a project connected to Saxony-Anhalt
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet specific conditions.
They must:
- Be primarily self-employed
- Apply as individual artists
- Meet regional connection requirements
The following are not eligible:
- School pupils
- Students
- People in vocational training
Applicants must also ensure they are not receiving other funding for the same period.
Applications From Film Collectives
Funding is awarded to individual artists.
For collective projects:
- Each person must submit a separate application
- Individual artistic contributions must be clearly defined
Collectives cannot submit one joint application on behalf of all members.
Project Requirements
Supported projects should:
- Focus on short films
- Have a maximum duration of 30 minutes
- Demonstrate artistic value
- Show a clear creative concept
Eligible formats include:
- Fiction
- Documentary
- Experimental film
How to Apply
Step 1: Develop the Film Concept
Applicants should prepare:
- Film idea
- Script or project outline
- Artistic approach
- Production plan
Step 2: Select the Appropriate Funding Category
Applicants should choose the support type that matches their project stage:
- Script development for early ideas
- Production funding for filming
- Festival funding for completed films
Step 3: Prepare Required Information
Applications should include:
- Personal details
- Project description
- Budget information
- Financing plan
- Timeline
Step 4: Submit Before Project Start
Applicants must apply before:
- Production begins
- Festival participation starts
- Project activities begin
Starting early without approval may make the project ineligible.
Funding Rules and Restrictions
Important rules include:
- No double funding for the same period
- Projects must not start before approval
- Funding must follow eligible cost requirements
For legal entities, financing plans may include limited non-cash contributions.
For individual applicants, non-cash contributions cannot be included in the financing plan.
Why This Funding Matters
The programme helps emerging filmmakers overcome early production barriers and develop sustainable creative careers.
Benefits include:
- Financial support for artistic projects
- Professional development opportunities
- Increased festival visibility
- Stronger regional film networks
The initiative contributes to a diverse and innovative film culture in Saxony-Anhalt.
Common Application Mistakes and Tips
Starting the Project Too Early
Projects that begin before approval may lose eligibility.
Tip: Wait for funding approval before starting production activities.
Applying Under the Wrong Category
Choosing the wrong funding stream can weaken the application.
Tip: Match the application type with your project stage.
Missing Regional Connection
Applicants must demonstrate a clear link to Saxony-Anhalt.
Tip: Explain how the filmmaker or project connects to the region.
Incomplete Financing Plans
Budgets should clearly show project costs and funding sources.
Tip: Prepare realistic and transparent financial information.
Ignoring Eligibility Rules
Students and trainees are not eligible for this programme.
Tip: Check applicant status before submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Saxony-Anhalt short film funding?
Self-employed filmmakers and artists with a residence or project connection to Saxony-Anhalt can apply.
What types of films are supported?
The programme supports short films, including fiction, documentary, and experimental formats, generally up to 30 minutes long.
How much funding is available for production?
Production support can cover up to 90% of costs, with a maximum grant of €20,000.
Is script development funding available?
Yes. Eligible filmmakers can receive a three-month scholarship of €1,500 per month for project development.
Can students apply?
No. School pupils, students, and people in vocational training are not eligible.
Can a film collective apply together?
No. Each individual member must submit a separate application.
Are completed films eligible for support?
Yes. Filmmakers can receive up to €2,000 for presenting short films at national or international festivals.
Conclusion
The Saxony-Anhalt Arts Foundation’s short film funding programme provides emerging filmmakers with support throughout the creative process, from early script development to production and festival presentation.
By supporting independent artists, regional film projects, and innovative short film formats, the programme strengthens the next generation of filmmakers and promotes creative diversity in Saxony-Anhalt.
For more information, visit Saxony-Anhalt Art Foundation.