British Council Film Lab Africa 2026 Opens for Young Filmmakers

Applications are now open for British Council Film Lab Africa 2026. Film Lab Africa is a film and television accelerator programme in Nigeria that supports young African storytellers and filmmakers.

After the outcomes from the 2023 to 2024 pilot phase, the programme returns with a clearer focus. The new edition places attention on building writing and production skills, shared projects between Nigeria and the UK, wider reach for African stories and fair growth within the creative sector.

The 2026 edition is themed Story Lab. It centres on scripted episodic content for screen and television. This focus allows writers, directors and producers to work across creative and industry spaces.

Programme structure

Film Lab Africa 2026 runs through six main phases.

Scriptwriters' online training

• 30 scriptwriters selected through an open call
• Online sessions on storytelling, character building, series format, pitching and long-term practice

Writers' residency and Story Lab

• 15 writers shortlisted for a physical residency in Lagos or London
• Guided writing sessions and close support from Nigerian and UK mentors

Filmmakers' online training

• 60 directors and producers take part
• Sessions cover episodic production, pitching to broadcasters, inclusive stories and climate themes

Production and grant support

• Selected filmmakers receive grants to produce pilot episodes
• Support covers script development, funding guidance and mentoring

Showcasing and distribution

• Finished works presented locally and abroad
• Activities include screenings, festival entries and market pitching

Industry engagement and advocacy

• Film clubs
• Creative hustles
• Other related industry activities

Who can apply

Applicants must meet these conditions:

• Aged between 18 and 35 years
• Must have produced at least one web project and one non-web project with credited work
• Must have a script ready for development and production
• Must submit a production bible
• Must complete the British Council e-learning programme before selection

How to apply

Interested candidates can apply through the British Council Film Lab Africa application portal at
britishcouncilssa.grantplatform.com/

For full programme details, visit the British Council Film Lab Africa programme page at
www.britishcouncil.org.ng/programmes/arts/creative-economy/film-lab-africa/film-lab-africa-phase-2-story-lab-edition

The application deadline has not been stated.

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