Gerd Ruge Grant

Who can apply?

• Eligible applicants are authors and directors whose primary residence is in Germany and who are developing documentary film projects intended for theatrical release.
• Students and production companies are not eligible for the scholarship.
• The scholarship can be applied for in connection with a first project after graduation.
• Submissions from emerging documentary filmmakers will receive special attention.

What are the funding conditions?

• The Gerd Ruge Grant is exclusively intended for the development and preparation of documentary film projects.
  It may be used to cover development-related costs such as fees for the creation of a script or exposé, research costs, travel expenses, legal consultation, packaging costs (such as trailer production or pitch materials), and participation in national or international financing forums.
• The Gerd Ruge Grant is awarded once a year. Funding decisions are made by a jury composed of several members, including the managing director.
  The grant is awarded as a subsidy with a total funding amount of up to €100,000, and is paid out in lump sums.
  The project development period is limited to 18 months.
• Projects submitted for the Gerd Ruge Grant may not be submitted under any comparable funding scheme of the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW.
  Projects that have already been submitted under another funding program of the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW are not eligible for the Gerd Ruge Grant.

How does it work?

• A consultation is mandatory. This consultation must take place at least one week prior to the submission deadline. Access to the portal will only be granted after the consultation.
• Applications must be submitted in full by the deadline published on the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW website.
• Only applications that are submitted in digital form on the day of the deadline can be considered. The date of receipt determines eligibility.

The following application materials are required:

• Cover letter to the jury (Writer’s/Producer’s Note)

• Project description (including a 10–15-page treatment, visual concept, and development plan)

• Screening link to a reference project

• Cost estimate (or budget)

• Filmography and CV of the applicant

• Proof of rights acquisition

• Declaration that the project is a new undertaking

• Proof of primary residence in Germany

Submission Deadline: 01.08.2025