Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
THE National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has opened applications for the second edition of its Short Film Grant, with three filmmakers set to receive funding of up to US$3 000 each to support local film production.
The initiative, secured through the Lotteries and Gaming Board, is aimed at empowering Zimbabwean storytellers, improving the quality of locally produced films and strengthening professional capacity across key disciplines in the country’s film industry.
The call for applications, which opened on Friday, runs until December 6, with eligible filmmakers expected to submit comprehensive project proposals outlining their concepts, production timelines and proposed use of the funding.
Beyond financial assistance, the selected beneficiaries will also benefit from professional training and mentorship in script development, producing and directing.
The training will be facilitated by NACZ in collaboration with leading professional film hubs, providing successful applicants with an opportunity to sharpen their technical and creative skills while developing their projects.
Under the programme, three eligible applicants will be selected, with each receiving financial support of up to US$3 000.
To qualify, applicants must be Zimbabwean citizens or legal permanent residents and be registered with NACZ, although those not yet registered may do so upon selection.
They must also demonstrate the viability of their proposed projects through clear and actionable submissions detailing the film concept, production schedule and budget utilisation.
The application package should include an application or cover letter, a detailed project synopsis, script treatment and pitch deck.
Applicants are also required to submit an itemised budget breakdown showing how the requested funding, capped at US$3 000, will be utilised.
A portfolio or curriculum vitae demonstrating previous work or involvement in the film sector must accompany the application, together with a copy of the applicant’s national identification document or passport.
Applications should be submitted electronically to natartsziminfo\@gmail.com.
The submission deadline is December 6 at 5pm with NACZ warning that late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
The grant comes at a time when capacity building, access to production resources and sustainable financing remain important considerations in the development of Zimbabwe’s film industry.
By combining financial assistance with professional mentorship, the initiative seeks to address both the production and skills-development needs of emerging filmmakers, potentially creating opportunities for stronger local storytelling and improved production standards.
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