🎬 OPEN CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
TOOLBOX PROGRAMME 2026 (FICTION & DOCUMENTARY)
The International Academy of Film and Media (IAFM), in collaboration with the European Film Market (EFM) and Participation Films Toolbox Programme of Berlinale, invites emerging Bangladeshi film producers to apply for the TOOLBOX Programme, Berlinale 2026 (Fiction and Documentary).
This international professional development initiative is designed to empower new voices from Europe and the Global South, focusing on producers from underrepresented and marginalized communities. The Toolbox Programme provides tailor-made mentorship, industry access, and a curated journey through the European Film Market and Berlinale platforms.
The EFM Toolbox Programme is an immersive tailor-made programme which supports underrepresented producers from around the world to gain first-hand, real-world experience at the European Film Market.
In addition to specific online workshop sessions animated by industry leaders, each participant is matched with a mentor to prepare them before, during, and after attending the EFM.
EFM Toolbox, as the only program of its type at an international film market, offers participants the chance to gain practical knowledge of the international film market, expand networks, and, ultimately, aid in reaching the next stage of their career.
Dates are:
Last date of submission: November 01, 2025
Online Workshops:
December 2025: Monday 8th to Friday 12th
January 2026: Monday 12th to Friday 16th
EFM: February 12-18th, 2026
WHO IS TOOLBOX FOR?
EFM Toolbox is geared towards emerging fiction or documentary feature film producers (Bangladeshi) looking to expand their network and knowledge of the international film market.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The programme runs from November 2025 to February 2026. The Toolbox team, together with the mentors, will offer participants curated meeting opportunities with industry leaders based on their professional needs.
 Before the EFM:
-> 1-on-1 mentor sessions that will encompass 8-10 hours over the course of the programme
-> Online workshops, developed from the needs of the group
During the EFM:
-> Workshops, roundtables, industry meetings and networking events
-> Exposure to the Berlinale Co-Production Market and Berlinale Talents
After the EFM:
-> Wrap mentor session
-> Continued support from the EFM Toolbox alumni network
Before the EFM:
-> Market preparation / How to Navigate the EFM
-> International co-production
-> Pitching Tools & Training
-> Sales & Distribution
-> Legal basics
-> Audience Design, Marketing & PR
-> Festival Strategy
During the EFM:
-> Meetthe Pros: Connecting with Industry Experts
-> Meet the Co-Production Market
-> Community Building Sessions
-> A wide variety of panels and workshops from across the EFM’s schedule
FEE:
1800€ (excl. 7% VAT) per participant. This covers full participation in EFM Toolbox and EFM Market Badge. But for the International Academy of Film and Media (IAFM) alumni only 1500€ (excl. 7% VAT).
*Please note that travel and accommodation is not covered or organized through Toolbox.
Who Can Apply?
– is part of a group underrepresented in their local film industry
– has one or several film projects in various stages
– has a working knowledge of film production
– is Business Proficient in English
– but participants do not need to apply with a specific market-ready project, but should be working on one or several film projects at various stages. The focus of the programme lies on acquiring new connections and knowledge about co-producing, international sales, and other key aspects of navigating the international film market.
What is EFM?
The European Film Market (EFM) is one of the world’s leading platforms for the global film, media, and entertainment industries, held annually alongside the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale). As a vibrant marketplace, the EFM brings together key professionals, including producers, distributors, sales agents, buyers, and financiers, to buy, sell, and license films and series, as well as documentaries and other audiovisual content. Beyond the transactional aspect, the EFM serves as a vital hub for collaboration, trend exploration, and networking, helping shape the future of the industry.
What is IAFM?
The International Academy of Film and Media (IAFM), a non-profit film society in Bangladesh registered under the Bangladesh Film Censor Board’s Non-Profit Film Society Act. Since its inception in 2006, IAFM has provided professional film and media training programs, as well as supported initiatives for media enthusiasts, educators, and professionals, both nationally and internationally. Our core focus lies in education, production, and distribution.
IAFM is prestigious member of the Green Film School Alliance, USA as first Asian and Bangladeshi organization. IAFM also the International Confederation of Arthouse Cinemas (CICAE), France & Germany.
IAFM won the 35th EMA Award (Green Oscar) 2025 for their ECO Film Lab production NISHI short film.
How to Apply
Apply through www.iafmedu.net
👉 Application Form Link – https://forms.gle/MmEtsZ3tXLcw4d878
