The Cairo International Film Festival (CIFF) has opened applications for the second edition of its New Wave programme, which aims to support emerging filmmakers, film students, arts and media professionals, and cinema enthusiasts across Egypt.
Developed in partnership with the Drosos Foundation and supported by the British Council, the programme will run alongside the 47th edition of CIFF from November 11–20, 2026. Applications are open until September 15, with the final selection expected to be announced by October 10.
Launched in 2025, New Wave was created to address the concentration of major film opportunities and industry activity in Cairo. The programme seeks to give aspiring talent outside the capital greater access to training, networking and professional opportunities, particularly those from economically marginalised areas.
The second edition is open to Egyptians and young Arab filmmakers, film students, arts and media professionals, and cinephiles living across Egypt’s governorates. Applicants can come from disciplines including directing, production, screenwriting, cinematography, acting, art direction, distribution and film curation.
The programme is also open to beginners and cinema enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge of film or pursue a career in the industry.
Selected participants will have opportunities to connect with Egyptian and international film professionals, attend Arab and international film screenings, and take part in panels, workshops and masterclasses covering different areas of filmmaking and the wider film industry.
In keeping with its focus on accessibility, the programme will seek gender balance and will not impose an age limit. Organisers said the initiative is intended to support both people starting their careers and those already working in the sector.
Participation will be fully funded for those selected. The package includes CIFF accreditation, domestic travel to and from Cairo, and shared accommodation in central Cairo throughout the programme.
The initiative forms part of CIFF’s wider efforts to discover and develop emerging talent in Egypt and across the Arab film industry. The festival has increasingly used programmes such as Cairo Industry Days and the Cairo Film Connection to connect new filmmakers with industry professionals and potential opportunities.
With its second edition, New Wave will continue bringing filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from across Egypt into the wider CIFF experience while creating opportunities for professional development and industry connections.
