Use and Disbursement of Reference Funds for Feature Films under the Film Funding Act 2025

This funding targets a wide range of film industry stakeholders, including startups, private individuals, companies, and associations. The program aims to support the production of new feature films in Germany and is thus nationally oriented.

The primary objective of the funding is to strengthen German cinema and encourage the creation of new works.

The funding program supports projects in the culture, media, and sports sectors, with a specific focus on film production. Specifically, it promotes the production of new feature films, with applications required before the creation of the zero copy. This includes both the planning phase and the actual product development in the film sector.

Financial support is provided in the form of grants. Detailed information on the maximum funding amount or specific funding rates is not listed in this document. The reference funds are intended to support the production of new feature films.

Specific deadlines and conditions apply for applying for funding. Applications can be submitted on an ongoing basis but must be submitted within a certain period after receiving the reference funds and before a significant production milestone. This ensures timely project implementation.

The application process for reference funds is continuous, allowing applicants flexibility in submitting their projects. Project selection is based on the criteria set out in the guidelines, with the German Federal Film Board acting as the managing body.

The reference fund funding is based on the Film Funding Act (FFG) as the primary legal basis. This is supplemented by specific guidelines from the German Federal Film Board, which regulate the exact use of the funds. All relevant texts are publicly accessible.