Berlin 2012: Norway Launches Film Fund Targeting Developing Countries

BERLIN — Norway has launched a film fund that aims to co-finance feature productions from regions of the world with little or no operating film infrastructure.

The fund, called Sorfond, will award grants totaling some $700,000 (NOK 4 million) annually to productions from developing countries and emerging economies. The maximum per project is capped at $175,000 (NOK 1 million).

Projects must have at least 50 percent of their budget in place before applying, and the budget must be fully closed by the time the first payment from the Sorfond is made.

A Norwegian co-producer is required to be considered for the fund, and the Norwegian firm will make the official application.

The Sorfond is accepting applications for its initial award grants until Feb. 15.