Film fund applications now open

The City of Cape Town invites filmmakers to apply for film project support. Submissions are open until 31 May for film productions scheduled for completion in the 2026/2027 financial year.

The film fund provides financial support or municipal services support for film projects produced in Cape Town.

The fund aims to support productions that drive local economic development and create job opportunities across the broader film and media value chain.

It also seeks to select projects that strengthen Cape Town’s emerging talent base through targeted upskilling and training initiatives.

‘This is the third call of the film fund and marks a significant step in the City’s continued commitment to strengthening Cape Town’s film and media industry. Building on the success of previous rounds, we are proud to further support a sector that continues to play a vital role in attracting investment and strengthening Cape Town’s position as a leading global production hub.

‘The strong performance of last year’s funded projects is a testament to the impact of this initiative, with productions gaining both local and international traction. This includes Wild Waterfront – a finalist at the 2026 International Tourism Film Festival Africa taking place in June. We look forward to supporting a new wave of projects that will continue to elevate Cape Town’s presence,’ said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.

The City is seeking projects that align with the following criteria:

• Projects that stimulate local economic growth and create jobs within the City of Cape Town;
• Film and media projects that highlight and promote the unique aspects of Cape Town;
• Initiatives that support and upskill emerging talent in the film and media sector
• within Cape Town;
• Programmes that drive sustainability, diversity, and inclusion within the local film and media landscape;
• Projects that authentically portray Cape Town’s rich history and cultural heritage; and
• Film and media projects with the capacity to attract direct investment into the City of Cape Town.

Film projects that can be considered for funding includes production, post-production funding for short films, feature films such as animation, interactive gaming, live action music videos, commercials, and reality TV series.

Projects must be completed within the City’s financial year (1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027).

Ineligible projects and exclusions:

• Adult content
• Training videos or corporate videos
• Current affairs or news shows
• Purchasing of equipment/assets

The Film Support Application form, Project Plan form and the documents checklist will be available to download from the City of Cape Town website.

Email completed application with supporting documentation to Film.Fund@capetown.gov.za

No hand-delivered applications will be accepted.

More information, FAQs and comprehensive application criteria are available here and on the City’s website.

Film Fund submissions are open until 31 May 2026.