The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has officially opened the call for entries for its Spring 2026 Grants Programme, inviting filmmakers worldwide to apply for funding to support innovative cinematic narratives and creative storytelling. This initiative is part of DFI’s enduring mission to discover and nurture emerging talent in film and audiovisual media, encompassing feature films, short films, TV drama, documentary series, and web series.
The application window for the Spring 2026 round will close on January 8, 2026, at 5 PM GMT +3. Filmmakers and content creators seeking both creative and financial assistance must complete the online form available on the DFI website during this time; applications submitted via email or incomplete applications will not be considered. All applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and detailed guidelines to ensure they provide all necessary documentation.
The DFI Grants Programme is dedicated to empowering storytellers at all stages of production, from development to post-production. This funding opportunity is open to feature films in narrative, documentary, experimental, and essay formats at any stage, while shorts and episodic projects can also receive focused support. The programme aims to amplify diverse cinematic voices with the potential to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Successful applicants will need to establish a Grant Agreement with the Institute that outlines the terms of support, including financial obligations, credit requirements, and other conditions that define the relationship between the filmmakers and DFI. The Institute also offers ongoing support and guidance throughout each project’s lifecycle, ensuring that creative visions can be brought to life with professional assistance.
DFI’s grants boast a solid history of backing impactful cinema. In the Spring 2025 cycle, the Institute funded 45 projects from over 35 countries. Previous recipients have included a wide array of feature narratives, documentaries, and series that illuminate critical, diverse, and deeply human stories from across the globe.
Aspiring applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their submissions early and to review the eligibility criteria for both MENA and non-MENA filmmakers.
