Production Funding Call Programme 2026 (South Africa)

Deadline: 14-Sep-26

The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority Film Fund Production Funding Programme supports experienced and emerging producers in creating high-quality film, television, animation, and documentary projects in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The programme is designed to strengthen the provincial film industry, develop local talent, attract production activity, and position KwaZulu-Natal as a competitive destination for audiovisual production. What Is the KwaZulu-Natal Film Fund? The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority established its Film Fund in 2014 to stimulate the development of the province’s film and television industry. The fund supports both local filmmakers and productions that bring additional investment and production activity to KwaZulu-Natal. The Production Funding Programme focuses on projects that can contribute to: - Growth of the local film and television industry. - Development of KwaZulu-Natal-based production talent. - Increased film production activity in the province. - Local employment and skills development. - Greater use of KwaZulu-Natal locations and production services. - Increased economic activity through audiovisual production. - Promotion of KwaZulu-Natal as a film and television destination. What Projects Does the Production Funding Programme Support? The programme supports a broad range of audiovisual projects, including: - Feature films. - Short films. - Animation projects. - Documentaries. - Television series. - Other eligible film and television productions. Projects should demonstrate strong creative and production potential and contribute meaningfully to the KwaZulu-Natal audiovisual industry. Who Is Eligible? The programme is open to producers at different stages of their professional careers. Applicants are categorized into three producer tiers:

- Tier 1: Established producers with substantial industry experience and a proven production track record.

- Tier 2: Intermediate producers with relevant professional experience and previous work in the film and television sector.

- Tier 3: Emerging producers who are developing their careers and have demonstrated relevant qualifications, experience, or industry potential.

Eligibility is assessed according to factors such as the producer’s

- Professional experience. - Qualifications. - Previous production work. - Industry track record. - Ability to deliver the proposed project. Applicants should ensure that they meet the requirements applicable to their producer tier before preparing the application. What Is the KwaZulu-Natal Spend Requirement? A key requirement of the programme is that at least 50% of the project’s total budget must be spent in KwaZulu-Natal. This means applicants must demonstrate meaningful local expenditure through the production budget. Eligible KwaZulu-Natal expenditure may include appropriate production-related costs such as: - Local crew. - Local creative professionals. - Production services. - Equipment and facilities. - Locations. - Accommodation and other eligible local services. - Other qualifying production expenditure incurred in the province. The application should clearly identify the portion of the budget that will be spent in KwaZulu-Natal. Why Does the Programme Matter? The Film Fund is intended to strengthen KwaZulu-Natal’s position within South Africa’s audiovisual and creative economy.

The programme can help:

- Increase local film and television production. - Create opportunities for emerging filmmakers. - Support established producers in developing larger projects. - Attract external productions to the province. - Build local production capacity. - Generate employment and skills-development opportunities. - Increase economic activity associated with film production. - Showcase KwaZulu-Natal locations and creative talent. For emerging producers in particular, access to production funding can help transform a developed concept into a professional production with commercial and distribution potential. What Documents Are Required? Applicants must prepare a comprehensive production funding application. The required application package includes: - Completed application form. - Motivation letter. - Project synopsis. - Narrative treatment. - Full script or scripts, where applicable. - Detailed production budget. - Breakdown showing expenditure in KwaZulu-Natal. - Production schedule. - Distribution and marketing plan. - Letters of commitment from distributors. - Letters of commitment from co-funders. - CVs of key creative team members. - Tax clearance documentation. - Proof of residence. - Company registration documents. - BBBEE certificate. - SBD form. Applicants should ensure that documents are complete, consistent, and professionally presented before submission. How to Apply

Step 1: Determine Your Producer Tier

Identify whether you qualify as a Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 3 producer based on your professional experience, qualifications, and production history.

Step 2: Develop the Project

Prepare a clear and commercially credible project package.

This should include the project’s:

- Concept. - Story. - Creative vision. - Target audience. - Production approach. - Budget. - Timeline. - Distribution strategy.

Step 3: Prepare the Script and Treatment

Provide the required creative materials, including the synopsis, narrative treatment, and full script or scripts. These materials should clearly communicate the project’s story, structure, characters, themes, and creative direction.

Step 4: Develop the Production Budget

Prepare a detailed production budget that identifies all major project costs. The budget must clearly demonstrate compliance with the requirement that at least 50% of the total project budget will be spent in KwaZulu-Natal.

Step 5: Secure Distribution and Co-Funding Commitments

Applicants should provide letters of commitment from relevant distributors and co-funders where required. These documents can demonstrate the project’s commercial viability,