NFVF Opens Applications for FY 2026/27 Marketing & Distribution and Festival & Market Hosting

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, has officially opened applications for two key funding opportunities for the 2026/27 financial year. The calls for Marketing and Distribution (Cycle 1 FY 2026/27) and Festival & Market Hosting (Cycle 1 FY 2026/27) are now live, offering support to filmmakers, production companies, and industry organisations.

• Opening date: 19 November 2025
• Closing date: 16 January 2026

Eligible individuals, companies, and organisations can apply via the NFVF online portal. Applicants must register and complete the application process online to be considered.

Funding Categories Open for Application

1. Marketing and Distribution (Cycle 1 FY 2026/27)

This category supports filmmakers seeking support for the marketing and distribution of their projects. Eligibility is tiered as follows:

• Tier 1: Experienced filmmakers with at least three commercially viable films or documentaries.
• Tier 2: Filmmakers with one or two feature films or a combination of short films and commercials.
• Tier 3: Not applicable for this funding round.

Project Criteria

Funding is available for:

• Feature films
• TV formats and films
• Animation features
• Documentaries
• Web series
• Short and animation films

A project may only receive funding once per financial year.

Requirements for Projects in Production or Post-Production (Up to R500,000)

Applicants must submit:

• Trailer or rough cut
• Synopsis and genre details
• Motivation letter
• Audience analysis
• Marketing and distribution plan
• Signed distributor letter of intent
• CVs and company documentation
• Production company compliance documents
• Proof of chain of title and more

Requirements for Development and Pre-Production Projects (Up to R250,000)

Applicants must provide:

• Script, pitch deck, or production schedule
• Synopsis
• Motivation letter
• Audience profile
• Marketing, distribution, and exhibition plans
• CVs and company profile
• Banking, registration, tax, and compliance documents
• Chain of title

2. Festival & Market Hosting (Cycle 1 FY 2026/27)

This funding category assists South African organisations that host film festivals and markets. Eligibility tiers include:

• Tier 1: Established festivals operating for over 10 years with multiple funding sources.
• Tier 2: Markets or festivals operating between 5 and 10 years.
• Tier 3: Emerging festivals under five years old.

Required Documentation

Applicants must submit:

• Project overview and motivation
• Programme and schedule
• Detailed budget
• Evidence of past festival outcomes
• Company registration and compliance documents
• Audited financials
• CVs of key staff
• Bank confirmation and BBBEE certificate
• FPB certification (at contract stage)

Important Application Notes

Applicants should carefully review all funding conditions before submitting. Key points to note:

1. Apply in the correct tier.
2. Read subcategory definitions thoroughly.
3. The main applicant should apply directly.
4. Only valid and recently certified documents are accepted.
5. Non-compliant applications will be disqualified.
6. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.
7. Ensure the application is submitted on the system and that a confirmation email is received. If not, applicants must contact the NFVF before the closing date.

Applications must be submitted via the official online system:

NFVF Application Portal:
https://nfvf.praxisgms.co.za/

Support and Enquiries

Applicants needing assistance may contact:

Thandekile Hlatshwayo
📧 thandekileh@nfvf.co.za

Manti Sekwakwa
📧 mantis@nfvf.co.za

📞 Tel: 011 483 0880

The NFVF continues its mission to develop and grow South Africa’s film sector by supporting local content creators, festivals, and markets. Filmmakers and organisations are encouraged to submit their applications ahead of the closing date on 16 January 2026.