Deadline: July 21, 2025
The Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025 is now open for applications, offering a powerful platform for emerging and established East African filmmakers to develop and produce impactful short films. Designed to strengthen creative voices from the region, this initiative provides funding, mentorship, and visibility for stories rooted in East African contexts.
This opportunity is delivered by Documentary Africa, in partnership with the East Africa Screen Collective and DW Akademie. The fund aims to support filmmakers in telling compelling, authentic stories that resonate locally and globally.
What is the Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025?
The Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025 is a short film development and production fund tailored specifically for East African filmmakers. The initiative was created to shift power and resources into the hands of African creatives by enabling them to produce high-quality short films with regional relevance and international appeal.
Following the success of the 2024 edition—where four filmmakers premiered their works at international platforms including Berlinale—the 2025 fund continues the mission of amplifying East African storytelling in the global arena.
What’s on Offer?
Successful applicants to the Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025 will receive:
- Up to €20,000 in production funding per project
- Tailored mentorship and coaching from industry professionals throughout the production process
- Opportunities for regional and international screenings of their finished work
This robust support package ensures that both creative and logistical aspects of the filmmaking process are nurtured from concept to completion.
Who is Eligible?
To apply for the Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Film teams must consist of a director and producer, both of whom must be East African nationals
- Applicants must reside in or originate from one of the following countries:
Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Comoros, Mauritius, or Madagascar - The short film project must be a maximum of 20 minutes in length
- At least 80% of the production must take place in East Africa
- Projects must be completed and delivered by 1 December 2025
- Final films must be ready and available for both regional and international screenings
Key Deadline
- Application Deadline: 21 July 2025
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare their proposals early and submit before the deadline.
Why Apply?
The Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025 is more than just a grant—it is a strategic investment in the growth and global visibility of East African creatives. It is built around a decolonial ethos, prioritising African-led storytelling and control over narrative, resources, and reach.
This fund is ideal for filmmakers who want:
- Financial backing with minimal constraints
- Access to experienced mentors and industry experts
- A platform for their work to reach regional and global audiences
- To be part of a growing movement of African creators shaping their own narratives
How to Apply
To apply for the Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund, visit the official application portal here.
You can also read more about the programme here for a detailed overview and eligibility information.
Final Note
If you are an East African filmmaker ready to tell a powerful story in under 20 minutes—and have a team and vision aligned with the fund’s mission—this opportunity is for you. Don’t miss the chance to receive funding, mentorship, and global exposure through the Documentary Africa EAccelerate Fund 2025.
For assistance with proposal drafting, refining, and review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
