Serial Pilot Funding

Production companies are eligible to apply, particularly those with their headquarters or a place of business in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Funding is provided for the production of pilot episodes for long-running series projects.

To apply, the interest of a broadcaster partner of the Film and Media Foundation must be demonstrated by a Letter of Intent.

At least 1.6 times the amount of funding granted must be spent in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Funding may amount to up to 50% of the recognized total production costs, up to a maximum of 500,000 euros per pilot episode.

For grant recipients from North Rhine-Westphalia, funding is provided as a grant.

Filming should ideally take place primarily in North Rhine-Westphalia.

The implementation period is 12 months from the date of funding approval.

Compliance with the ecological standards for German film, television, and online/VoD productions is mandatory.

A consultation is required before submitting an application.

If the broadcaster does not place a series order within 18 months of the pilot episode’s delivery, the rights to the pilot episode revert to the production company upon reimbursement of the broadcaster’s share, as contractually agreed in advance.