Call for Application: World Cinema Fund (WCF) Classic

Applications are now open for the World Cinema Fund (WCF) Classic, an initiative of the German Federal Cultural Foundation and the Berlin International Film Festival, supporting independent filmmakers working in regions where film production is affected by political and economic instability.

Established in 2004, the fund seeks to strengthen local film industries, support culturally significant storytelling, and increase the international visibility of films from underrepresented regions. The programme primarily supports feature-length fiction films and creative documentaries intended for theatrical release.

Selected projects benefit from the World Cinema Fund's extensive international network, helping filmmakers connect with German co-producers and expand their visibility within the global film industry.

Funding

WCF Classic offers:

• Up to EUR 60,000 for production;

• Up to EUR 40,000 for post-production.

  
  

Eligible projects should have a total budget between EUR 200,000 and EUR 1.4 million, or up to EUR 2 million for animation projects.

Funding must be spent on activities taking place within WCF-supported regions.

Scope and approach

The programme prioritises projects that demonstrate artistic excellence, visual originality, strong storytelling, and the potential to reach international audiences.

Preference is given to projects of particular cultural or political relevance, as well as films that can help expand access to diverse cinematic voices globally.

Eligible projects include:

• Feature-length fiction films (minimum 70 minutes);

• Creative documentaries (minimum 70 minutes);

• Post-production support for eligible projects.

Eligibility

The fund supports projects originating from Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia, the Caucasus, as well as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Projects must involve a director from one of these eligible regions or countries and should be conceived as international co-productions with the potential to reach audiences beyond their country of origin.

Producers from eligible regions may apply without a German co-producer at the time of submission. However, projects selected for funding will be required to establish a partnership with a German production company within three months of funding approval and before the funding agreement is signed.

Application process

Applications are submitted through the WCF online portal and must be prepared in English.

Required materials include:

• Script or documentary treatment;

• Financing plan and detailed budget;

• Synopsis and artistic dossier;

• Director and producer statements;

• Distribution and audience-building strategy;

• Co-production agreements, financing commitments, and rights clearances;

• Moodboards, visuals, or additional artistic materials

Application information

Deadline: 24 July 2026

For more information and to apply, click here.

Download and read through the official guidelines carefully before submitting.