With a new funding programme, PROG – Producers of Germany and nordmedia aim to improve the work-life balance in film and television production. The „Film Production Family Grant“, which has now been launched, supports production companies in implementing family-friendly measures during the production of film and TV projects.

This is due to the specific working conditions in the industry. Fixed-term contracts, changing work locations and long working hours often present significant challenges for film professionals with children or care responsibilities. The new funding scheme is intended to help reduce these burdens and enhance the appeal of the film industry as a place to work.

Small and medium-sized production companies with projects that involve filming days in Lower Saxony or Bremen and have a regional connection are eligible to apply. During the pilot phase, fiction productions can receive grants of up to 20,000 euros, whilst documentary projects are eligible for funding of up to 5,000 euros. A total of 250,000 euros is initially available for the programme.

Funding is available, amongst other things, for childcare and family support during production, measures for pregnant and breastfeeding film professionals, job-sharing schemes, the introduction of four-day shooting weeks, and the use of family consultants. Support services for unforeseen family crises may also be subsidised.

The pilot phase will begin in June 2026. The deadline for applications for the next funding round is 3 September 2026.

All funded productions undertake to take part in an evaluation. The findings from this will be presented at an industry event and used to further develop the programme.

Nordmedia’s Managing Director, Meike Götz, described the family allowance as an important step towards improving working conditions in the industry. PROG’s Managing Director, Julia Maier-Hauff, also welcomed the launch of the programme and pointed out that the initiative had emerged from the membership of the producers’ association.