SØRFOND: Norwegian South Film Fund

The main objective of SØRFOND is to inspire the increase of filmproduction in countries where production is limited for political or economical reasons. Producers and directors from countries in Asia, Africa, Latin-America and the Middle East are eligible for grants. Strong artistic performance and cultural integrity are top priorities. A basic SØRFOND feature is to encourage productions dealing with freedom of expression to apply for grants. For specification of eligible countries follow this link.

Funding by the Norwegian government

About NOK 4 million will be granted for support in 2012, in a interdepartemental co-operation between The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and The Norwegian Ministry of Culture. The Norwegian filminstitute (NFI) and the Films from the South Festival (FFS) will jointly be in charge of the administration of the fund.

Production support and demand for Norwegian co-producer

SØRFOND grants production support as top financing, meaning that at least 50% of the budget must be in place at the time of submitting the application. 100% of the budget must be confirmed at the point of the first payment being transferred. Maximum support for one production is NOK 1 million. A Norwegian co-producer is required, and the application must be sent by the Norwegian co-producer. A short form agreement between the producer and the Norwegian co-producer is required at the point of sending the application.

Guidelines for Sørfond

Official guidelines issued by The Norwegian Mininstry of Foreign Affairs on January 20th 2012 can be found here

Deadline and procedures for applications and time of response

Deadline for application is February 15, 2012. The Norwegian minority producer is responsible for sending the application to SØRFOND. Webform for application can be found here. Expected response on application will be 4-6 weeks after deadline for applying for grants.