How does the NFVF support production?
The NFVF will consider supporting the production of films and documentaries either through repayable loans or grants.
The NFVF considers production funding primarily as an investment and as such will recoup its expenditure at the time of delivery of the finished product through traditional commercial distribution and exhibition channels.
The NFVF will determine at its sole discretion what form of assistance will be granted.
In the case of a co-production, recoupment will only apply to the South African distribution component. If a product fails to be completed, the NFVF reserves the right to be reimbursed.
The following genres will be considered for production funding:
Documentaries
Features
Short and specialised film and video productions
Animation
Multimedia projects that have an audiovisual component(In the case of multimedia projects, assistance will be considered for first-timers only).
The NFVF is committed to ensuring the distribution and exhibition of locally produced films and documentaries. To this end, the NFVF will exercise bias in favour of those projects that have local distribution commitment.
How are funds disbursed?
Funds will be disbursed in at least four instalments, depending on the cash flow requirements of the particular project. After the initial payment, disbursements will be made only after the NFVF has received satisfactory interim financial and progress reports.
Who qualifies for production funding?
South African-owned production companies that have reasonable experience may apply for production funding in any of the above-mentioned genres.
New and emerging film-makers that would not otherwise have the opportunity to actively participate in the local film industry, may apply for production funding in only two genres: short films and documentaries. However, in order to qualify, the filmmakers or writers should have a production company attached.
For all applications, the script must be developed to an acceptable stage to go into production. If the script is deemed not ready, the applicant may be advised to seek assistance for development funding instead.
How are production funding applications evaluated?
In addition to the funding principles, the following apply to production funding:
Credible track record in production
Distribution intent or financial commitment from other partners, particularly theatrical or video distributors and broadcasters
Guaranteed rural or township exposure on screen
Language diversity
Proven commitment to empowerment and training in pre and post-production as well as during production
Technical productions standards that are of broadcast quality, consistent international film distribution trends.
South African perspectives and leading roles for South African actors
In the case of co-productions, South African involvement in production must be at least 50% or meet the requirements of the relevant co-production treaty
Feature Film Production Funding
Production companies that have a minimum of 4 years experience in production and have been significantly involved in three previous feature film productions may apply for production funding for a feature film production.
Companies that have had reasonable exposure of their past productions at cinema, video distribution and broadcast levels will be looked upon favourably.
The following supporting documentation must be submitted together with an official application form:
A covering letter of motivation
A proposal in accordance with the NFVF official format
Proof of South African identity and tax clearance certificate
Proof of company ownership
Declaration of any vested interest or association with other film companies or projects that have submitted applications for funding to the NFVF
Letters of distribution intent from local and/or international distributors
Letters of support from any other stakeholders
Details of training and empowerment components in the 3 phases of the production: pre-production, production & post-production
Proof of copyright clearance
Television and Documentary Production Funding
Production companies that have a reasonable experience in production and have had significant involvement in television or documentary production may apply for production funding. Funding for the pilot episode of a television series will only be considered if a Rand for Rand commitment is secured from a local television station. Priority will be given to programmes that highlight issues of cultural diversity. The production must utilise predominantly South African expertise, talent, crew, technicians and locations.
The following supporting documentation must be submitted together with an official application form:
A cover letter of motivation.
A proposal in accordance with the NFVF official format
Proof of South African identity
Proof of company ownership
Declaration of any vested interest or association with other film companies and projects that have submitted applications for funding to the NFVF
Letters of intent from any local and/or international distributors
Letters of support from any other stakeholders
Details of training and empowerment components in the 3 phases of the production: pre-production, production & post-production
Proof of copyright clearance
Short Film Production Funding
First-time filmmakers and/or independent film production companies may apply for production funding for short films. This aspect of the NFVF's allocation strategy is central to its commitment to nurture and develop new and emerging filmmakers. However, first-timers must be willing to work with an experienced producer. This aspect of the NFVF's fund disbursement scheme will be subject to strict controls and accountability measures.
Priority will be given to productions that deal with innovative and relevant subject matter
The following supporting documentation must be submitted together with an official application form
A cover letter of motivation.
A proposal in accordance with the NFVF's official format (proposal requirements and headings are detailed on the non-commercial production funding application form).
Proof of South African identity.
Proof of community endorsement.
CV's of all directly involved with the production.
Proof of previous attempts to enter the film production sector even though these may have been failed attempts.
