The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), an agency of South Africa's Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, has opened applications for its Public Screening Funding Programme 2026/27 (Cycle 1).
The programme is designed to increase public access to local films while encouraging audience development through screenings that celebrate South African stories and filmmaking.
Supported events may take place in cinemas, community halls, parks, drive-in venues, or through mobile cinema initiatives, with organisers encouraged to include audience engagement activities such as Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and filmmaker conversations.
Funding
Grants of up to R150,000Â are available to support eligible public screening projects.
Funding may contribute towards costs associated with:
Delivering public screenings
Venue hire
Technical screening equipment
Film licensing
Marketing, and audience engagement activities
Scope and approach
The NFVF is looking to support public screening initiatives that expand the reach of local content, strengthen audience appreciation for South African cinema, and create meaningful viewing experiences within communities.
Projects that combine screenings with educational or interactive components such as discussions with filmmakers, panel conversations, or community dialogue are encouraged.
Eligibility
Applications are open to:
South African individuals
Registered companies
Community organisations
Applicants should be planning public screening events focused on South African films.
The programme is available under the following categories:
Tier 2: Intermediate public screening hosts with more than five years and fewer than ten years of experience.
Tier 3: Emerging public screening hosts with fewer than five years of experience.
Required documentation
Applicants will be required to submit a project proposal, screening plan, budget, letter of motivation, and supporting organisational documentation as part of the application process.
Additional documentation, including a Film and Publications Board certificate, will be required at the contracting stage.
Application information
Deadline: 17 August 2026
For any queries regarding applications, please contact application officers:
Thandekile Hlatshwayo
Email:Â thandekileh@nfvf.co.za Or
Manti Sekwakwa
Email:Â mantis@nfvf.co.za
Telephone: 011 483 0880
For more information and to apply, click here.
Your funding experts
InterArts Funding offers its expertise to assist you in applying for grant opportunities (including this one), leveraging our extensive experience to enhance your chances of securing the grant. It is important to clarify that InterArts Funding is an independent entity and is not affiliated with any specific funding organisation. While we have a commendable track record of success, we cannot guarantee the approval of your application. Grant outcomes depend on various factors beyond our control.