Short Description:
The call for applications to Berlinale Talents 2026 – the talent development programme of the Berlin International Film Festival – has recently opened.
Berlinale Talents is aimed at filmmakers, series and XR content creators with with an existing track record of work. Applications are accepted in general, for specific projects and from alumnis.
Berlinale Talents is aimed at film and television professionals with an existing track record of work and who are willing to share their experiences with others. To be eligible, you need to have made at least one feature-length film or two short films or a high-quality drama series or TV movie that have screened in festivals or been widely streamed. Students are only admitted in very exceptional cases, e.g. if they have previously worked in the film business.
Established in 2003, Berlinale Talents is the festival’s talent development programme for the world’s top 200 emerging filmmakers, drama series creators and key players of the cinema industry. It consists of a creative Summit with talks, discussions, workshops and numerous networking events, the Berlinale Talents Lab for Berlinale Talents alumni with projects in development and the Talent Project Market for Berlinale Talents producer alumni seeking co-production and/or financing.
Eligibility:
Berlinale Talents is aimed at filmmakers, series and XR content creators with with an existing track record of work. We are currently open to over 15 film disciplines, which you can explore below.
Participation in Talents comes with the responsibility to share, and our entire programme is focused not just on what the experts have to offer, but what our Talents can bring to the group too. Each and everyone’s input and the interaction among the participants drive the sessions forward and are a valuable addition to the tapestry of the six days.
Program Benefits or Awards:
Every year in February, Berlin becomes the home for filmmakers and industry representatives alike who attend the Berlinale programme sections and the European Film Market to present their latest work. With links to both the business and artistic components of the festival, the Summit of Berlinale Talents is a six-day onsite event in presence of everyone invited (13th-18th February 2026).
Entry Fee:
There’s no participation fee for Berlinale Talents.
However, all applicants contribute a Service fee as part of their first application. There are three rates for the application Service fee:
- the Standard Rate of 20 Euro,
- the Solidarity Rate of 25 Euro or more, and
- the Reduced Rate of 15 Euro.
Location: Berlin, Germany
Deadline: September 3, 2025
Website link:
https://www.berlinale-talents.de/bt/page/c/main
