Johannesburg, South Africa — April 8, 2025
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) has officially opened its latest call for applications, inviting South African filmmakers and industry professionals to apply for funding support for upcoming film festivals and markets taking place between June 1 and July 31, 2025. This funding opportunity is aimed at facilitating the participation of South African talent in both local and international industry events, further reinforcing the country’s presence on the global cinematic stage.
With an emphasis on advancing the careers of creatives in the film and television sector, the NFVF’s support extends to a wide range of professional engagements — from film screenings and panel discussions to workshops, pitching forums, and award nominations.
Financial Support Breakdown
The funding offered by the NFVF is tailored to meet the specific demands of both international and local travel. Qualifying applicants may receive:
- Up to R50,000 in funding for international film festivals and markets
- Up to R20,000 in funding for local (South African) film festivals and events
A representative from the NFVF stated that the initiative is designed to remove financial barriers and enable South African storytellers to showcase their work, build strategic industry relationships, and seek co-production opportunities on global platforms.
“The goal is to empower our filmmakers to be visible and competitive on the international stage,” the representative explained. “We want to ensure that deserving creatives have the resources and access they need to seize valuable opportunities at home and abroad.”
Eligibility Criteria
The call for applications is open to South African citizens actively involved in the film and television sector. To be considered for funding, applicants must demonstrate official participation in a qualifying event, including but not limited to:
Screening a film or project
- Pitching a concept or participating in a panel
- Being nominated for an award
- Having received a formal invitation to attend or speak at a festival
- Enrolling in a film-related workshop or masterclass
- Applicants from across the creative spectrum — including directors, producers, writers, editors, cinematographers, and actors — are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Submission Window and Application Process
The NFVF will be accepting applications from April 8 until April 23, 2025. All submissions must be made through the NFVF’s online portal at https://nfvf.praxisgms.co.za.
Applicants are strongly urged to ensure that all supporting documents — such as invitation letters, proof of event participation, travel itineraries, and certified ID documents — are valid and certified within the past six months. Failure to comply with documentation standards may result in disqualification.
“The online portal simplifies the submission process while offering detailed guidance to help applicants prepare comprehensive and complete proposals,” noted the NFVF representative. “We encourage early submissions to avoid any last-minute technical issues.”
For additional resources and further details, applicants can visit the NFVF’s official Linktree at https://linktr.ee/nfvfsa.
Driving Visibility and Global Reach
This funding call is part of the NFVF’s broader strategy to support the development and internationalization of South Africa’s film industry. By enabling local filmmakers to attend globally significant festivals — such as the Cannes Film Festival, Berlinale, Toronto International Film Festival, and others — the foundation aims to promote South African cinema and open new avenues for collaboration and distribution.
Past recipients of similar funding have gone on to secure co-productions, international festival awards, and distribution deals, further underlining the critical impact of such support.
“Every opportunity to attend a market or festival can result in lifelong networks, industry exposure, and even financial backing for future projects,” the NFVF representative said. “We see it as a strategic investment not just in individual careers, but in the sustainability and reputation of our industry as a whole.”
Strengthening South Africa’s Film Industry
The NFVF’s mandate includes the promotion of a vibrant, diverse, and economically sustainable audiovisual sector. The funding made available through this call also contributes to the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s national goal of strengthening South Africa’s cultural and creative economy.
With the global film industry continuing to expand, strategic engagement at international festivals and markets has become more critical than ever. The NFVF encourages filmmakers who are ready to take their work to new audiences to apply for this funding round.
“This is a significant opportunity for filmmakers to not only represent themselves but also the richness and depth of South African storytelling,” said the representative. “We are committed to supporting them every step of the way.”
Key Dates:
Call Opens: April 8, 2025
Deadline to Apply: April 23, 2025
Event Date Range: June 1 – July 31, 2025
Apply at: https://nfvf.praxisgms.co.za
South Africa’s creative voices are making waves around the world — and with the right support, the next breakout success could be just one festival away.
South Africa’s stories are ready to travel. Are you?
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