Deadline: 01-Feb-2026

The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) invites African filmmakers to apply for its Live Action Programme, offering mentorship, masterclasses, and in-person pitching at the annual Durban FilmMart event. Projects must have African producers, directors, or writers, and selected participants receive travel and accommodation support for one representative.

Overview of the Programme

The Durban FilmMart Live Action Programme is designed to support emerging and established filmmakers across Africa, including Africans in the Diaspora who retain citizenship. The initiative provides professional mentorship, masterclasses, and networking opportunities to help participants advance their film projects and connect with global industry stakeholders.

Selected projects gain:

• Mentorship: Online sessions, one-on-one guidance, and in-person support

• Masterclasses: Industry insights and skill-building sessions

• Pitching Opportunities: Present projects to investors and decision-makers at Durban FilmMart 2026

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the programme:

• Projects must involve a producer, director, or writer who is an African citizen

• Projects require both a producer and director attached

• Non-African collaborators may participate if paired with African partners

• Applicants may submit multiple projects, but only one can be selected per cycle

• Proof of intellectual property ownership must be provided for selected projects

Programme Structure and Timeline

The programme is divided into several stages:

1. Online Mentorship and Masterclasses: February – March 2026

2. One-on-One Mentorship: March – July 2026

3. In-Person Durban FilmMart Participation: 22 – 27 July 2026

Travel Support:

• Round-trip economy flight within Africa for one project representative

• Accommodation provided for the representative

• Participants are responsible for visa costs, document issues, or changes after flight booking

Key Dates:

• March 2026: Project evaluation by DFMI

• April 2026: Notification of shortlisted projects

• May 2026: Official announcements and mentor introductions

• June 2026: Preparations and ongoing mentorship

• July 2026: In-person pitching and decision-maker meetings

Application and Selection Process

1. Technical Evaluation: Initial eligibility check

2. Project Evaluation: Panel of industry professionals review project packages

3. Shortlisting: Selected projects contacted to confirm participation

4. Official Selection: Public announcement following confirmation

Applicants must not contact evaluation panel members directly. All communication is conducted through DFMI staff.

Responsibilities of Selected Participants

• Attend all scheduled programme components

• Communicate any changes in team members to DFMI

• Acknowledge DFMI support by including its credit and logo in promotional materials

• Include a note in completed films that the project was pitched at the DFM Pitch and Finance Forum

Tips for a Strong Application

• Ensure all key creative roles are filled (producer and director)

• Provide clear proof of intellectual property ownership

• Demonstrate a strong, viable project with potential for impact and audience reach

• Prepare for active participation in mentorship sessions and pitching

Who Can Apply?

• African filmmakers residing in Africa or in the Diaspora with retained citizenship

• Teams with at least a producer and director

• Projects seeking mentorship, guidance, and exposure to international industry networks

FAQ

Q1: Can I submit more than one project?
A1: Yes, multiple projects may be submitted, but only one can be selected per cycle.

Q2: Are non-African collaborators allowed?
A2: Yes, non-African producers, directors, or writers can participate if paired with African partners.

Q3: Is travel covered?
A3: DFMI covers a round-trip economy flight within Africa and accommodation for one representative. Visa costs are the participant’s responsibility.

Q4: What are the key programme dates?
A4: Mentorship and masterclasses: Feb–March 2026; One-on-one mentorship: March–July 2026; Durban FilmMart: 22–27 July 2026.

Q5: Can selected projects be resubmitted in the future?
A5: No, projects selected in one cycle cannot be resubmitted in future cycles.

Q6: What materials must be provided for the application?
A6: Applicants must submit project packages including proof of ownership, team details, and project summaries aligned with the programme requirements.

Q7: Are participants required to acknowledge DFMI support?
A7: Yes, DFMI credit and logo must be included in promotional materials, and completed films must reference pitching at the DFM Pitch and Finance Forum.

Why It Matters

The Durban FilmMart Live Action Programme provides a platform for African filmmakers to gain mentorship, industry exposure, and funding access. By participating, filmmakers strengthen their projects, expand professional networks, and enhance the visibility of African cinema on the international stage.

For more information, visit Durban FilmMart Institute.