We all have a story to tell, and artistes have many ways to share those stories. Some write, some paint, some sculpt, and others create films. Every artiste dreams of making their stories heard.
Today, there are more chances than ever for artistes to get funding for their projects. Film is unique because it’s a form of synaesthetic art, it engages our senses by combining visuals, sounds and emotions in a powerful way.
For filmmakers, there are plenty of financial opportunities available through various renowned film Festivals. These Festivals not only offer funding but also provide professional support and a platform to showcase your work.
This article provides the latest filmmaking funding and industry opportunities to help you explore options and apply to bring your dream project to life.
Locarno Filmmakers Academy
The Locarno Filmmakers Academy is a ten-day intensive program aimed at emerging filmmakers aged 18 to 35, providing a unique opportunity to engage with the Locarno Film Festival while enhancing their directing skills. Participants must have a short film selected at an international Festival and be fluent in English.
The program includes networking with notable filmmakers, showcasing talent at public Academy Screenings, and exploring new cinematic ideas.
Key dates to remember are April 20, 2025, for application submissions, May 26, 2025, for application responses and August 6-16, 2025, for participation in the festival. For more information, inquiries can be sent to [email protected].
Asian Cinema Fund 2025 Script development fund
The Asian Cinema Fund 2025 is calling for submissions until March 31, 2025, for projects under two categories: Asian Project and AFA/BAFA Project, aimed at first or second feature films that incorporate Asian elements. Eligible applicants must be of Asian nationality and have prior directing experience, while the script must be original.
Selected projects will receive a cash grant of 10 million KRW and be invited to participate in the Asian Project Market 2025. Applicants must complete an online application form that includes details about the project, a logline, synopsis, director’s intention, and a filmography, along with a treatment and links to previous works that must remain accessible until the end of May 2025. Three projects will be selected, with results announced via email in May. Obligations for selected projects include signing a Fund Agreement, participating in the APM, submitting further materials, and properly crediting ACF in the film and promotional materials. For more information, applicants can contact [email protected].
Post production fund
The Asian Cinema Fund 2025 is accepting submissions for its Post Production Fund from March 10 to April 7, 2025, aimed at both Asian and Korean projects. Eligible films must be fiction features with no prior screenings or releases, completing editing by May 2025, and must include Asian or Korean elements.
Selected projects will receive in-kind post-production services, including digital intermediate, final sound mixing, English subtitles, and DCP at designated studios in South Korea, along with round-trip airfare and accommodation during the post-production period. Four films (two from Asia and two from Korea) will be selected, announced via email in May, and must premiere at the 30th Busan International Film Festival. Applicants must complete an online application form and submit required materials, including project information, a script, and a rough or final cut of the film with English subtitles. All inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
Asian network of documentary fund
The Asian Cinema Fund is accepting submissions for its Documentary Fund until April 10, 2025, aimed at feature-length documentary projects seeking theatrical release. Eligible projects must be directed by individuals of Korean or Asian nationality and should have a running time of 60 minutes or more. Projects can be in any stage of production, from development to post-production. Selected projects will receive a cash grant of up to 20 million KRW, along with an official invitation for one representative to attend the Asian Contents & Film Market, which includes a market badge, round-trip airfare, and four nights of accommodation.
Applicants must complete an online application form with project details, a synopsis, director’s intention, a project proposal, and links to previous works and a demo reel. Around seven projects will be selected, with results announced via email in early June, and funding provided after the 30th Busan International Film Festival. Recipients must attend documentary programs, include specified logos in their film credits, and share project updates for promotional purposes. For inquiries, contact [email protected].
The West Meets East Screenplay Lab
The West Meets East Screenplay Lab is set to return for its fourth edition, taking place online from January 11 to 14, 2026, during the 24th Dhaka International Film Festival. This year marks a significant expansion as the lab is now accepting submissions from all Asian countries, moving beyond its previous focus on South Asian filmmakers.
This shift represents a major step forward in its mission to support emerging directors across the continent and provide a larger platform for Asian storytellers.
By broadening its reach, the West Meets East Screenplay Lab is creating unparalleled opportunities for filmmakers to gain exposure on a global stage and connect with industry professionals from an extensive network.
From the submitted projects, the top 10 proposals will be selected for an exclusive mentorship program. Over the course of four days, participants will engage in an intensive workshop aimed at refining their screenplays and developing their projects under the guidance of experienced mentors. Each participant will work closely with a dedicated mentor for the first three days, receiving personalised feedback and advice.
On the final day, participants will pitch their projects online at FilmHaat, the festival’s marketplace, where producers, distributors, investors, and OTT platforms will be in attendance. Following the pitches, a jury panel will announce the top three projects, which will receive cash prizes designed to support the realization of their screenplays.
The prizes include BDT 500,000 for the first prize, BDT 300,000 for the second prize, and BDT 200,000 for the third prize.
Submissions will open on April 1, 2025. To apply, directors must submit various materials, including a logline, synopsis, director’s statement, treatment, and a director’s profile. Once a proposal is selected, the director will have two to three months to develop and submit the full screenplay.
The West Meets East Screenplay Lab continues to serve as a crucial platform for Asian filmmakers to refine their craft, connect with industry professionals, and bring their creative visions to fruition. With this expansion, organizers aim to foster a diverse and dynamic storytelling landscape across Asia.
For inquiries, contact www.dhakafilmfestival.org/
