Call for Proposals: AFAC’s Cinema Grant Program

The AFAC Cinema Grant Program supports Arab filmmakers with funding up to USD 50,000 for feature films and up to USD 20,000 for short and medium films across development, production, and post-production stages. It is open to Arab directors and producers globally, including diaspora, with some conditions for non-Arab producers working with Arab directors. The program aims to strengthen film production and storytelling in the Arab region.

What is the AFAC Cinema Grant Program?

The AFAC Cinema Grant Program, run by the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), provides financial support to Arab filmmakers working on feature, short, and medium-length films.

It supports projects across all major filmmaking stages, including development, production, and post-production.

Funding Categories and Grant Amounts

Feature Films

• Development: up to USD 10,000
• Production: up to USD 50,000
• Post-production: up to USD 25,000

Short & Medium Films

• Production: up to USD 20,000
• Post-production: up to USD 10,000

What the Grant Supports

Eligible Film Activities

• Script and project development
• Film production (shooting, crew, logistics)
• Post-production (editing, sound, color grading, etc.)
• Collaborative filmmaking projects
• Regional and diaspora storytelling initiatives

Key Objectives

• Support Arab cinematic storytelling
• Strengthen regional film production capacity
• Encourage creative collaboration across borders
• Support both emerging and established filmmakers
• Enhance visibility of Arab cinema globally

Who is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

• Arab directors and producers
• Filmmakers living in the Arab region or diaspora
• Non-Arab producers (only if the director is Arab)

Open Access Principles

• No restrictions on:
  • Age
  • Gender
  • Religion
  • Ethnicity
  • Experience level
  • Country of residence

Application Limits

• Producers may submit up to 2 projects per category per cycle
• Projects must not involve the same director for multiple submissions
• Producers are encouraged to attach to production/post-production applications

Who is NOT Eligible?

Institutional Restrictions

• AFAC board members, staff, jurors, and associates
• Families of above categories

Grant Status Restrictions

• Applicants with an active AFAC grant (director or producer rules apply)
• Directors who already have an open grant
• Recipients of grants in two consecutive years (must wait 2 years)
• Producers with more than two active grants

Project Restrictions

• Projects already receiving two AFAC grants (not eligible for further post-production funding)

Key Concepts Explained

Film Development

Early-stage work such as scriptwriting, research, and planning.

Production Stage

The actual filming and execution of the project.

Post-Production

Editing, sound design, visual effects, and final completion of the film.

Why This Grant Matters

• Strengthens Arab film industry infrastructure
• Supports independent filmmaking
• Encourages regional storytelling and identity
• Enables cross-border collaboration
• Provides critical funding for all production stages

How to Apply / How It Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Develop a film project (feature, short, or medium-length)
2. Identify the correct funding stage (development, production, or post-production)
3. Ensure eligibility of director and producer
4. Prepare application materials
5. Submit through AFAC grant system
6. Await selection and funding decision

Required Application Elements

• Film synopsis and concept
• Director’s vision statement
• Production plan and timeline
• Budget breakdown
• Team details (producer, crew, etc.)
• Supporting materials (scripts, visuals, etc.)

Assessment Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

• Artistic originality and storytelling quality
• Feasibility of production
• Contribution to Arab cinema
• Strength of creative vision
• Budget realism and production planning

Tips for a Strong Application

• Emphasize a strong narrative and cinematic vision
• Clearly define production stage needs
• Ensure a realistic and detailed budget plan
• Highlight regional or diaspora relevance
• Attach experienced production partners when possible

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying with unclear production stage
• Missing eligibility restrictions for directors/producers
• Submitting incomplete production teams
• Weak or vague storytelling concept
• Ignoring funding limits per category

FAQs

1. What is the maximum funding available?

Up to USD 50,000 for feature production and smaller amounts for other stages.

2. Who can apply?

Arab directors and producers, including diaspora filmmakers.

3. Can non-Arab producers apply?

Yes, if the director is Arab.

4. What stages are funded?

Development, production, and post-production.

5. Can I submit multiple projects?

Yes, up to 2 per category per cycle under conditions.

6. Are all applicants eligible every year?

No, there are restrictions for consecutive funding and active grants.

7. What is the main goal of the program?

To support and strengthen Arab film production and storytelling.

Conclusion

The AFAC Cinema Grant Program is a major funding opportunity for Arab filmmakers working across all stages of film production. By supporting development, production, and post-production, it plays a crucial role in strengthening Arab cinema and promoting diverse storytelling across the region and diaspora.