Durban Film Office Opportunity for Film Festivals, Markets and Development Programmes

 

By Fred Felton | Jan. 28, 2025

EThekwini Municipality’s Durban Film Office has opened the call for partnership opportunities for organizations and individuals that are interested in contributing to the development and expansion of the city’s film industry.

The Durban Film Office (DFO) is a Department of eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development Unit and was established in 2003 and is responsible for the promotion and development of the Film and Television Industry in the City of Durban.

‘’The city’s vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and talented artists make it a prime destination for international filmmakers,’’ noted City Manager Musa Mbhele at a recent film event.

The Municipality is looking for proposals from interested parties to partner on film festivals, film markets and development programmes aimed at strengthening the creative economy.

These partnerships are designed to foster growth in the film industry, promote local talent, and position Durban as a leading destination for global film initiatives. The partnership opportunities are open to event organizers, filmmakers, cultural organizations, and creative industries professionals.

Key Areas for Proposals include:

Film Festivals, Film Markets and Film Development Programmes

Proposals should demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting Durban’s film industry and contributing to its long-term growth and sustainability.

Closing date for all partnership proposals is 10 February 2025.

Application Process

Applications from film industry specific business organisations which are formerly registered as a Non-Profit Company will be considered.

Applications must have a detailed proposal on how the organisation will assist the city in growing the local film industry. A Business plan that illustrates how the initiative will drive the culture of local content appreciation, the plan should clearly outline the target audience.

Proposals should outline the organisation’s expertise in running and hosting film festivals/markets and film industry development programmes. A proven marketing and distribution track record of the applicant.

A detailed Project Implementation Plan including proposed screening programme needs to be included.

The proposal should include a detailed Audience Development budget that shows funds already raised for the project.

The applicant should also provide a detailed financial implication for a 36-month period relating to film programmes aimed at transformation, industry and audience development.

Proof of copyright ownership should also be included.

Tiers

Tier 1: This is for established international festivals and events (international – refers to festivals that attract audience from several continents) that have been operating for more than 10 years and can show they attract funding from multiple sources. This tier qualifies for funding of R300 000 – R1.5 Million.  

Tier 2: Intermediate Local Film Festivals and events that have been operating for more than 5 years and less than 10 years. This tier will only qualify for up to R300 000.

Tier 3: Emerging regional Film Festival and events that have been operating for fewer than 5 years. This tier will only qualify for up to R200 000.

Tier 4: Emerging Film Festivals and event that have been operating for fewer than 2 years. This tier will only qualify for no more than R100 000.

All applications must be delivered to the Economic Development Unit Offices: 11^th Floor, Rennie House, 41 Margaret Mncadi Avenue, Durban, 4001 between 9am and 3pm. Only physical applications will be accepted.

Terms and Conditions apply.

For more information visit: https://film.durban.gov.za/news/EThekwini+Municipality%E2%80%99s+Durban+Film+Office+Invites+Partnership+Proposals+for+Film+Festivals%2C+Markets%2C+and+Development+Programmes?fbclid=IwY2xjawHzNPZleHRu%E2%80%A6