Deadline: 24-May-2026
The Docubox Creative Producers Lab supports Kenyan film producers developing feature-length fiction films as part of the Docubox International Partnership Summit 2026. The program offers intensive mentorship in script development, creative producing, and international networking, with selected projects receiving development grants of USD 5,000. It focuses on Kenya-set fiction films and aims to strengthen production readiness for global film markets.
Overview of the Program
The Docubox Creative Producers Lab is a film development initiative under the Docubox International Partnership Summit 2026. It is designed to strengthen the capacity of Kenyan film producers working on feature-length fiction films.
The lab provides:
- Creative producing mentorship
- Script development support
- Story consultancy and script doctoring
- Production planning guidance
- International industry networking
Core Objectives
The program aims to:
- Support development of Kenyan feature fiction films
- Improve script and production readiness
- Build strong production bibles and funding materials
- Connect filmmakers to global industry stakeholders
- Strengthen creative producing skills in Kenya
Key Focus Areas
Participants will work on:
Film Development
- Feature-length fiction screenplay development
- Script polishing and restructuring
- Story development and narrative refinement
Production Preparation
- Production bible creation
- Fundraising and pitch materials
- Budget and production planning tools
Creative Support
- Story consultancy
- Script doctoring sessions
- Creative producing mentorship
Industry Exposure
- Networking with international producers and funders
- Engagement with summit participants
- Access to global film market insights
Program Structure
Phase 1: In-Person Lab
- Duration: 5 days
- Participants: 7 Kenyan producers
- Led by experienced creative producer
- Focus: intensive development and mentoring
Phase 2: Virtual Support
- Continued online mentorship
- Support from story consultants and script doctors
- Ongoing project refinement
Phase 3: Industry Engagement
- Networking with international partners
- Access to funders and decision-makers
- Participation in summit ecosystem
Funding Support
- 5 selected projects receive USD 5,000 each
- Funding is for:
- Script development
- Production bibles
- Fundraising materials
- Project packaging for production readiness
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be Kenyan producers
- Be developing feature-length fiction films
- Have completed:
- At least two short films, OR
- At least one produced feature film
Film Requirements
Eligible projects must:
- Be fiction films only
- Have runtime between 60–120 minutes
- Be set in Kenya
- Include any genre (drama, thriller, comedy, etc.)
Selection Benefits
Selected participants gain:
- High-level creative mentorship
- Professional script development support
- Industry networking opportunities
- Access to international film funding ecosystems
- Financial development grant (selected projects)
Why This Program Matters
The Docubox Creative Producers Lab strengthens:
- Kenyan film production capacity
- Professional creative producing skills
- International visibility of Kenyan cinema
- Access to global funding networks
- High-quality feature film development pipelines
How to Apply (Process Overview)
- Prepare feature fiction film project (60–120 minutes)
- Ensure story is set in Kenya
- Confirm producer eligibility and experience
- Submit application for Docubox Creative Producers Lab
- If selected, attend 5-day in-person lab
- Participate in mentorship and development sessions
- Continue with virtual development support
- Compete for USD 5,000 development grant
Tips for Strong Applications
- Present a clear, compelling feature film concept
- Demonstrate strong storytelling structure
- Show production readiness and feasibility
- Highlight producer experience and past work
- Include strong development vision for the film
- Emphasize Kenyan cultural and narrative grounding
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting documentary or non-fiction projects
- Films outside the 60–120 minute range
- Stories not set in Kenya
- Weak evidence of production experience
- Underdeveloped screenplay concepts
- Lack of clarity in production planning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the Docubox Creative Producers Lab?
Kenyan producers with experience in at least two short films or one feature film.
2. What type of films are eligible?
Only feature-length fiction films between 60 and 120 minutes.
3. Can documentaries be submitted?
No, only fiction films are eligible.
4. What is the funding amount?
Five selected projects receive USD 5,000 each for development.
5. What support is provided?
Script development, production bibles, mentorship, and international networking.
6. Where does the lab take place?
A 5-day in-person lab held during the Docubox International Partnership Summit 2026.
7. Is ongoing support provided?
Yes, participants receive continued virtual mentorship after the lab.
Conclusion
The Docubox Creative Producers Lab is a targeted film development initiative supporting Kenyan producers in creating high-quality feature-length fiction films. Through mentorship, industry networking, and development funding, the program strengthens the pipeline of Kenyan cinema and connects local storytellers to global film opportunities.
For more information, visit Docubox.