The BDFF, Hungary’s largest feature film project development workshop, is once again inviting writers-directors and their producers who are preparing to make their first feature film. The workshop primarily helps participants build b2b connections, develop their promotional materials, and identify their potential audience. At the end of the program, creators will present their projects in an informal, non-traditional pitching forum, where the winning projects will be awarded cash prizes by the jury.
BDFF places great emphasis on enabling applicants to work with key players of the international film industry. Previous editions have hosted renowned professionals such as Ada Solomon (Golden Bear–winning producer), Klaudia Smieja-Rostworowska (Madants, producer), Benjamin Cölle (Pluto Film, sales expert), Siniša Juričić (producer), Kristoffer Rus (director, producer), Paul Tyler (writer, director, producer), and Zsuzsi Bánkúti (selector for the Locarno Film Festival, distribution expert).
Programme structure
BDFF has a strong b2b focus, meaning that industry experts primarily help participants ensure that their financial plans, financing and distribution strategies meet modern market expectations. Throughout the workshop, they will map out which partners might be interested in the project, and what kind of materials are best suited to approach them with. Creators will also receive guidance on crafting a professional pitch.
The workshop includes roundtable discussions, presentations, industry events, and case studies of successful debut films. Some of the programs are open to industry members, press, and students.
Production Workshop: You will work with experienced producers to dive into the artistic, strategic and financial aspects of producing your feature film.
Audience Design Workshop: You will learn to map audience personas, understand their motivations, and design tailored communication strategies that bridge your creative vision and market demands.
Producer-Director Couple Therapy: A safe environment where you can openly address collaboration challenges with your producer/director partner, with the goal of strengthening your long-term working relationship.
Pitch workshop: A pitch training to elevate your pitch, command the stage, deliver with impact, and master your professional presentation skills.
Key information:
- Dates: March 3–6, 2026
- Location: Budapest
- Participation fee: free; accommodation and partial travel costs are covered by the organisers.
- Number of selected projects: up to 8 debut feature film projects
- Prize: €1,500
Application
Who can apply? writer-directors and producers, or teams of them. The director must be working on their first feature film.
Application deadline: January 11, 2026
Application materials for the feature film projects:
- Logline (max 250 characters with spaces)
- Synopsis (max 200 characters with spaces)
- Treatment (max 40.000 characters with spaces) or script if available
- Director’s concept (max 3000 characters with spaces)
- Producer’s notes (max 3000 characters with spaces)
- Director’s bio with filmography and IMDB link and at least one screener link to previous short film
- Producer’s bio with previous works and IMDB link
- Total estimated budget (in EUR)
- Optional: preliminary distribution concept; moodboard or other visual material / weblinks to the director’s previous works
The application form and the requested materials are to be submitted via a Google Application Form. You can find the link HERE.
Applicants commit to attending all BDFF workshops and sessions. Since the program is held in English, proficiency in English is essential. All written materials and all project versions must also be submitted in English.
Shortlisted applicants will be notified at the end of January.
We look forward to receiving your projects!
BDFF is supported by the National Film Institute of Hungary.
