CALL FOR SERVICE PROVIDERS: PANELIST SERVICES – DEVELOPMENT FUND EVALUATION and REQUEST FOR SERVICE PROVIDERS TO OFFER PANELIST SERVICES – MICRO-BUDGET FILM FUND

 

The Durban Film Office (DFO), under the eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development Unit, is inviting experienced film industry professionals and service providers to apply to serve as evaluation panelists for its 2026 film funding programmes. Two panels are being established to assess project proposals for the Development Fund and the Micro-Budget Film Fund, running from February to March 2026. 

Call Out- Panelist for Developm… 

Call-Out- Panelist for Micro 20… 

This initiative plays a critical role in identifying and supporting high-quality film projects that contribute to the growth of Durban’s film industry.  

Purpose of the Panel 

Selected panelists will: 

• Review and evaluate submitted film project proposals
• Provide detailed comments and score each submission based on set criteria
• Assist in shortlisting projects for the interview stage
• Participate in interviews scheduled for 16 March 2026
• Contribute to the final selection of projects for funding

For the Micro-Budget Film Fund, the process will identify the top 10 projects for interviews, with three projects ultimately receiving funding.

Call-Out- Panelist for Micro 20…
For the Development Fund, the process will culminate in the selection of two projects for funding.


Scope and Timeline
 
The evaluation process will take place in three phases:
 

• Phase 1: Review and evaluate 43 proposals
  16 – 27 February 2026
• Phase 2: Provide detailed comments and scoring
  02 – 05 March 2026
• Phase 3: Panel interviews with shortlisted applicants
  16 March 2026

 Call Out- Panelist for Development Fund 2026.pdf

Call-Out- Panelist for Micro 2026.pdf


Eligibility Requirements
 
Applicants must:
 

• Be Durban-based individuals or service providers
• Have at least 10 years of relevant industry experience

Expertise may include:
 

• Script writing and development (minimum 5 screenwriting credits)
• Creative or executive producing
• Film development and storytelling analysis
• Production budgeting and scheduling
• Accredited training in script writing/development
• Experience with micro-budget or made-for-TV productions (for the Micro Fund)

Strong analytical skills, industry experience, and a deep understanding of narrative structure and market viability are essential.

 Click here to to learn more about  the Call Out- Panelist for Development Fund 2026.pdf

Click here to learn more about the  Call-Out- Panelist for Micro 2026.pdf


How to Apply
 
Interested applicants must submit:
 

• A detailed CV
• Proof of relevant experience

Email submissions to:
 

• nosipho.hlophe@durban.gov.za
  
  
• fezile.peko@durban.gov.za
  
  

Closing Date:
20 February 2026 at 11:00 AM
Late applications will not be considered.

Download the full notices:
 

• Development Fund Panel: https://film.durban.gov.za/storage/Call%20Out-%20Panelist%20for%20Development%20Fund%202026.pdf
  
  
• Micro-Budget Fund Panel: https://film.durban.gov.za/storage/Call-Out-%20Panelist%20for%20Micro%202026.pdf