Durban FilmMart opens call for African animation projects

Durban FilmMart Pitch and Finance Forum has opened its 2025 call for animation projects, inviting submissions from filmmakers across Africa and the Diaspora.

Contents

Eligibility Application process Deadline

Renowned as one of Africa’s leading film industry platforms, the forum connects emerging and established filmmakers with financiers, distributors, and co-production partners. This year’s edition places special emphasis on animation projects seeking development and funding support.

The Pitch and Finance Forum aims to accelerate the growth of promising projects by introducing creators to key decision-makers in the global film industry. While specific funding figures are not disclosed, selected participants gain access to an invaluable network, mentorship opportunities, and structured market exposure that can help transform a concept into a fully financed production.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

Submit a project in the animation category.
Have both a producer and director attached.
Be led by a producer, director, or writer who is an African citizen, verified with a valid African passport or ID.
Africans in the Diaspora who retain citizenship are also eligible.
Non-African professionals seeking African collaborators may apply as delegates.

Application process

Applications undergo two stages: a technical eligibility review and an industry panel evaluation. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted before the final selection is publicly announced.

Applicants must submit key materials, including a project synopsis, financial overview, and production plan. Multiple submissions are allowed, though only one project per applicant will be selected per cycle. Projects previously chosen in past editions are not eligible for resubmission.

Each selected project must designate one representative to participate fully in the programme, including: