12 December 2025 

An important signal for the next generation of German filmmakers: The Board of Trustees for Young German Film is launching a new funding initiative from 1 January 2026, which will support screenwritersinside, directorand producers in the development of materials and projects as well as in production. All in all 7.85 million euros from the federal budget The funds are supplemented by funding from the federal states to create a reliable basis for the promotion of young talent.

The background to this is the Young talent study of the Producers Association (now PROG Producers of Germany), which proved for the first time that talent promotion urgently needs to be reformed in order to provide young filmmakers with better career conditions. Since then, the promotion of talent has been a central goal of film reform.

Alexandra Krampe, former board member of PROG, emphasises the importance of the new funding: "It is a milestone that the board of trustees is now focusing on the creative core triangle of screenplay, direction and production. The support from federal funds and the close cooperation with the industry create prospects for up-and-coming talent - especially after a difficult year for all filmmakers."

PROG board member Britta Strampe also appeals to the federal states and the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs to further increase funding and to give greater consideration to development funding. Only in this way can the interplay between project, production and distribution funding be optimised to strengthen the quality and visibility of German films both nationally and internationally.

In order to ensure a smooth start, the first Submission deadlines and jury meetings for the new funding areas as early as Q1 2026 take place. Young talents can thus prepare for the new funding opportunities at an early stage and realise their projects.

With this reform, the Kuratorium junger deutscher Film is providing an important impetus for the German film scene and opening up promising prospects for the next generation of filmmakers.