DFI launches fund for Qatari filmmakers

The Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced the return of its Qatari Film Fund, an initiative designed to support short and feature filmmaking by Qataris. In a recent tweet, DFI noted that applications will be accepted until September 1. The Qatari Film Fund, offers support for the furtherance of the skills and accomplishments of Qatari filmmakers. “The fund is committed to the development of up to four feature films, and the development, production and post-production of up to eight short films annually.“Feature films developed through the fund are eligible for financial support for production, and one film will be selected for production funding in the following year. Projects are selected through two funding cycles per year,” DFI said.Short films are eligible for funding valued at up to QR182,500, that includes development, production and post-production funds, mentorship, equipment and production support from DFI which will be working closely with successful applicants throughout these stages. It will also work with each filmmaker to develop and finalise scripts, establish budgets and schedules, secure creative and technical teams and provide mentorship opportunities with industry specialists as required.Feature film treatments and screenplays at any level of progress are also eligible for development funding valued at up to QR182,500, including development services, mentorship, equipment and other support from the Institute. DFI will also work with each filmmaker to provide bespoke development services, including research, script notes and feedback, script editors, writers’ fees, legal services, location scouting, budgeting, scheduling and casting, among others.“Further, the Institute will continue to provide creative and technical training and mentoring through its Learning Initiatives. Qatari screenwriters, writer-directors and producers are encouraged to approach the Institute with film ideas currently in the early stages of development.“The Institute will assist with the development, production, and post-production of projects through filmmaking workshops and in-house development, and help prepare applications for funding from the Qatari Fund as appropriate,” DFI noted. The Institute also issued some general guidelines, as well as the requirements to be submitted, for Short and Feature film funding on its website: https://www.dohafilminstitute.com.