APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
Are you a filmmaker with an original idea for a documentary?
Would you like to develop it with the support of industry experts?
NIUDOC is an initiative by CNA Cinema Audiovisivo FVG, CNA Cinema Audiovisivo Veneto, Pordenone Docs Fest – Le voci del documentario, and Lago Film Fest, in collaboration with Fondo per l’Audiovisivo del Friuli Venezia Giulia.
WHO CAN APPLY?
- Filmmakers under 35 years old with a documentary project (no restrictions on format, type, or theme, including VR/XR and new media)
- National and international authors interested in developing documentary projects connected to or set in the Triveneto/North-East of Italy (Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trentino, Veneto regions), its territories, and its stories, or projects with a cross-border or Balkan area focus (Slovenia, Serbia and Croatia)
- The idea can be for a feature-length, short, or medium-length documentary. Even if you haven’t defined the format yet, you can still apply!
HOW DOES IT WORK?
- The first pitch session (in English) and networking meetings will be held on March 27, 2026, in Pordenone.
- Selected projects will take part in matchmaking speed dates with established production companies from the Northeast and the Balkan Region, creating real opportunities for the project development.
- An online tutoring program will guide filmmakers in developing, writing, and creating a pitch deck and teaser between April and July. The final presentation will take place in July 2026 at Lago Film Fest.
- At both Pordenone and Revine Lago, a jury of experts will select a winner.
The Winning Project at each festival will receive:
- CinemaRental: Equipment rental voucher
- KublaiFilm: DCP creation
- ZaLab: A potential distribution opportunity on the ZaLab View streaming platform
In addition, in Pordenone, each selected project will be eligible to compete for two prestigious awards dedicated to the support and further development of the film.
- The #DocsConnect Taskovski Training Award in collaboration with Taskovski Films.
- The Impronta Films Consultancy Award in collaboration with Impronta Films, offering up to 6 sessions over a 12 month period, for one documentary project in development
During Lago Film Fest in July 2026, the winning project will also have the chance to collaborate with Piattaforma Lago, within various initiatives organized throughout the year.
HOW TO APPLY?
Submit your application by February 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM, by completing the following FORM.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Applications can be submitted in Italian. If selected, project materials and presentations must be in English.
- Only projects owned by the author are eligible.
- Selected authors must confirm their participation within 48 hours of receiving the selection notice and ensure full availability at the respective festivals and for the tutoring program.
For more information, contact info.niudoc@gmail.com or info@pordenonedocsfest.it.
As Pordenone Docs Fest and Lago Film Fest, we recognize diversity as a source of creativity and innovation. We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities, promoting equity and inclusion, using inclusive language, and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
