Germany's film funding is booming: over 100 applications in a short time!

Germany's film funding is booming: over 100 applications in a short time!

Minister of State for Culture Wolfram Weimer recently reported a remarkable increase in applications for funding from the German Film Fund (DFFF) and the German Motion Picture Fund (GMPF). This reflects growing demand and confidence in the economic incentives that the federal government has created for film and cinema production. According to Weimer, the numerous applications are a clear confirmation of the investments in Germany as a film location. The DFFF supports both national and international (co-)productions and will offer even better conditions in the future.

The federal government has not only promised to do more to promote film and cinema, but also to double the incentives in economic film funding. What is particularly pleasing is that from February 1, 2025, the subsidy will increase to 30% of the eligible German manufacturing costs. Thanks to this adjustment, producers can hope for a maximum of 5 million euros for DFFF I and up to 25 million euros for DFFF II. These subsidies were created to strengthen cinema film production in Germany and to give the industry a boost, which has been able to assert itself better and better in international competition in recent years, as can already be seen in the new film of the Pumukl story, which was made in the Penzing Studios near Munich.

Improvements and new guidelines

In addition, new guidelines for the DFFF and the GMPF were introduced with retroactive effect from January 1, 2025. The application deadlines are flexible; Applications only need to be submitted six weeks before filming begins. In order to prepare for funding, it is advisable to have a consultation before submitting, as noted on the FFA website. This gives producers the opportunity to plan the application steps carefully and meet the relevant requirements.

• DFFF I: Zuwendung von 30% der zuwendungsfähigen DHK, max. 5 Millionen Euro.
• DFFF II: Zuwendung von 30% der zuwendungsfähigen DHK, max. 25 Millionen Euro.

In summary, it shows that film funding in Germany is on the right track. The increased investment and the increase in applications signal healthy growth in the film industry. It is all the more important to further strengthen the local cinema culture and promote young talent so that diversity and creativity in German film can continue to flourish in the future.

For all those who are interested in more detailed information about the funding programs, we refer to the pages of FFA and WDR. There you will find more details and news about film funding in Germany.