FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the funding of the WCF. If you do not find an adequate answer to your questions, please don't hesitate to contact us: .
Which kind of films can be submitted to the WCF?
The WCF accepts full-length feature films and creative feature-length documentary forms, intended for theatrical release with a minimum length of 70 minutes. Short films are not eligible for WCF funding.
Is it necessary to already have a German partner at the time of applying to WCF Classic?
No, it is not. The submission can be made by the local production company itself. However, you must attach a German partner if your project is recommended for funding as the final funding contract can only be concluded with a German partner.
What is the role of the German/European partner?
The German or European partner is responsible for signing the funding agreement with the WCF, is the formal recipient of the WCF support, and assumes liability towards the WCF for the project. For the final accounting, the German or European partner has to deliver an expenditure report/auditor’s certificate confirming that the entire WCF funding amount (minus possible overheads of up to 7.5 percent for the German or European partner) was spent exclusively on the production of the film in a WCF region/country.
Is a project eligible if the director does not have a WCF region’s/country’s citizenship?
No, it is not.
The WCF supports filmmakers from the eligible countries.
If the submitted project is co-directed by two or more directors, all must hold the citizenship of WCF countries.
Only in cases where citizenship is absent for political or historical reasons may the WCF committee review the situation individually, upon receipt of a statement explaining the circumstances.
How many projects can a single production company submit to the WCF?
Only one project per selection round can be submitted.
Can a project be submitted more than once to the WCF?
No, a film project can only be submitted once to the WCF, unless the WCF Jury explicitly invites the project to re-apply.
When is the best time to apply a project for distribution support?
The time frame between submitting a project for WCF distribution support and the film’s theatrical release must be at least 12 weeks.
How does the selection process work?
The WCF assembles an international jury consisting of the programme manager of the WCF and external film-related professionals and experts who make recommendations on which films should receive funding.
The decision sessions are closed and the WCF is under no obligation to explain its reasons for declining any funding application.
The WCF also reserves the right to grant a smaller amount of funding than requested.
Can WCF funding be combined with other support?
Yes, WCF funding can be combined with support from other funding bodies. Some exceptions apply to the WCF Europe programme.
However, a project may only receive funding from one of the WCF programme at any given time. In particular, a project that has already received production funding form the WCF is not eligible to apply again for post-production funding.