Doha Film Institute Grants
Production and post-production grants from the Doha Film Institute supporting filmmakers from the MENA region and the global South with funding for narrative and documentary features.
Overview
The Doha Film Institute (DFI) operates one of the most significant film funding programs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. DFI grants support filmmakers from the Arab world and the broader global South with development, production, and post-production funding for narrative and documentary feature films. The institute was established with the mission of developing the region's film industry and connecting Arab filmmakers with international audiences.
DFI grants have supported films that have premiered at Cannes, Venice, Berlin, Toronto, and other major international festivals. The institute's funding has been instrumental in enabling filmmakers from countries with limited domestic film financing to produce work that reaches global audiences. DFI-supported films have won major prizes at international festivals and received Academy Award nominations.
The institute also operates the Ajyal Film Festival in Doha and runs educational programs, industry workshops, and co-production events that strengthen the MENA film ecosystem. The grants program is the centerpiece of DFI's filmmaker support activities.
What It Covers
- Development grants for screenwriting and project development
- Production grants of up to $100,000 for feature film production
- Post-production grants of up to $25,000 for films nearing completion
- Industry connections through DFI's international network of partners and festivals
- Festival support for completed films, including submissions strategy
Eligibility
Grants are open to filmmakers from the MENA region and from countries in the global South (Africa, Asia, Latin America). Projects must be feature-length narrative or documentary films. First-time and experienced filmmakers are eligible. Projects at the development, production, or post-production stage are considered depending on the grant category. DFI prioritizes projects with strong artistic merit and cultural significance.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the DFI website. The institute operates two grant cycles per year. Submissions include a screenplay or treatment, director's statement, budget, financing plan, and filmmaker CV. There is no application fee.
Who Should Apply
Filmmakers from the MENA region and the global South with feature film projects at any stage of development or production. The grants are particularly valuable for filmmakers in countries with limited domestic film financing who need international support to realize their projects.
See Also
For understanding international co-production and distribution, see International Film Markets. To plan your feature film budget, use the Production Budget Calculator.
