Applications Open for Durban FilmMart’s 16th Edition, Fostering Opportunities for African Filmmakers

The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) has officially opened project submissions for the 16th edition of the Durban FilmMart (DFM), scheduled for July 2025 in Durban, South Africa.

Recognized in UNESCO’s 2021 Film Trends in Africa Report as “the continent’s best film market,” DFM provides a unique platform for African filmmakers to showcase their projects, gain visibility, and secure funding and partnerships for the development of African cinema.

According to DFMI Director Magdalene Reddy, participation at DFM has propelled many African filmmakers to international labs and festivals. “Over the past 16 years, more than 80 projects pitched at DFM have turned into completed films, with many screening and winning awards globally,” Reddy noted.

Most recently, two DFM alumni projects premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, with another showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival.

The DFM Pitch and Finance Forum is open to feature-length fiction, documentaries, and episodic series content in development. For eligibility, at least one of the project’s primary creatives—producer, writer, or director—must be an African citizen.

Selected projects will gain access to a network of co-producers, financiers, sales agents, and funders. Up to 20 projects will be chosen by an independent panel, with final selections to be announced in May 2025.

To apply, African filmmakers must submit their projects in English, although the actual project language is unrestricted. Applicants should ensure at least one project representative is available to attend the DFM mentorship programme and be present in Durban for the event. The deadline for submissions is January 19, 2025, with applications available through the Durban FilmMart Institute website.

In addition to the Pitch and Finance Forum, the 2025 DFM will feature an extensive industry programme and networking events, drawing filmmakers and industry professionals worldwide. In 2024, the DFM attracted nearly 1,500 delegates from 58 countries over four days.

For further details on DFMI and year-round initiatives supporting African filmmakers, can visit  here.