The Realization Short Animation scheme, supported by the Dutch Film Fund, provides subsidies for producing short animated films up to 60 minutes. It emphasizes originality, artistic quality, diverse storytelling, and professional production standards, offering financial support of up to €165,000 per project. This initiative helps independent European production companies bring bold, high-quality animation projects to life.

Overview

The Realization Short Animation scheme is designed to support the production of short animated films that showcase artistic ambition, originality, and creativity. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate high-quality storytelling, diverse perspectives, and daring narratives, contributing to the richness of European animation.

Key Features of the Program

• Supported Film Length: Up to 60 minutes

• Artistic Focus: Original scenarios, creative vision, and storytelling innovation

• Funding Scope: Covers up to 85% of the production budget

• Maximum Grants:

  • €110,000 for films up to 15 minutes

  • €165,000 for films between 15–60 minutes

• Additional Contribution: €5,000 possible for distribution

The Dutch Film Fund evaluates applications based on production scope, team composition, budget planning, and the collaborative vision of the producer and director/creative team.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be an independent production company established for at least two years

• Operate within the Netherlands, EU member states, EEA countries, or Switzerland

• Produce and exploit audiovisual productions on an ongoing basis

• Ensure the producer is a separate professional from the director or screenwriter (exceptions exist for low-budget productions)

Eligibility conditions also vary based on:

• Film length (<10 minutes or ≥10 minutes)

• Requested fund contribution (<€50,000 or higher)

• Producer experience and track record

Why It Matters

This scheme strengthens the European animation sector by:

• Encouraging innovative and original short films

• Supporting professional development for producers and creative teams

• Promoting diversity in storytelling and perspectives

• Providing structured financial support for high-quality production

How to Apply / How It Works

1. Prepare Your Project Proposal: Include detailed creative vision, production plan, budget, and intended length of the film.

2. Confirm Eligibility: Verify that your production company meets the 2-year establishment requirement and geographic criteria.

3. Determine Funding Request: Calculate up to 85% of the production budget and consider requesting the €5,000 distribution supplement if applicable.

4. Submit Application: Complete the Dutch Film Fund application process online with all required documentation.

5. Selection Process: Applications are assessed on originality, quality, creative ambition, production feasibility, and team composition.

Tips and Common Mistakes

• Budget Planning: Ensure your budget aligns with the 85% funding cap and reflects realistic production costs.

• Team Structure: Maintain professional separation between producer and director/screenwriter unless applying for exceptions.

• Film Length: Apply the correct eligibility criteria for films under 10 minutes, 10 minutes or longer, or higher funding requests.

• Documentation: Include comprehensive financial, creative, and production documentation to strengthen your application.

• Distribution Planning: Consider requesting the additional €5,000 for distribution if relevant.

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding available for a short animated film?
€110,000 for films up to 15 minutes, €165,000 for films between 15–60 minutes.

2. Can non-Dutch companies apply?
Yes, companies based in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland that meet the eligibility requirements can apply.

3. Is the fund contribution the total production budget?
No. The fund covers up to 85% of the total production budget.

4. Can the producer also be the director or screenwriter?
Generally, no. Exceptions exist for clearly defined low-budget productions.

5. Can funding be requested for film distribution?
Yes. An additional €5,000 can be requested specifically for distribution.

6. How long must a production company be established to be eligible?
At least two years.

7. Are short films under 10 minutes eligible?
Yes, but they are subject to specific eligibility requirements based on length and requested funding.

Conclusion

The Realization Short Animation scheme empowers European independent production companies to create bold, original, and high-quality animated films. By offering targeted financial support, emphasizing professional standards, and prioritizing diverse storytelling, the Dutch Film Fund strengthens the innovation and artistic impact of the short animation sector.