Who is First Market for?
First Market is for emerging NZ film producers with at least one pitch-ready dramatic script or documentary treatment who are seeking travel funding and mentor support to participate in MIFF37ºSouth: Bridging the Gap’s program of scheduled meetings and events with local and international screen sales agents, distributors and other potential finance partners.
What’s on offer
Travel Grant of $3,500 to cover the cost of 37 South :Bridging the Gap market attendance including travel and accommodation and market registration.
Mentorship with a senior NZ producer to elevate and refine your pitch and presentation ahead of the market, preparation and support during the market, follow up analysis of meetings and planning for next stages
Please note you must also apply concurrently to 37ºSouth: Bridging the Gap.
Opportunity
upskill in market preparation and pitching
interrogate the finance, packaging needs and market prospects of your project/slate via the guidance of a senior NZ producer and discussions with financiers at 37 South.
build your network of finance contacts for the future
secure partners for your project in order to progress towards production
build a tuakana-teina relationship with a senior NZ producer
Accelerate readiness for participation in major global markets (e.g. Cannes, Berlin, TIFF) by building confidence, capability, and industry literacy at Bridging the Gap
Support more informed project selection and development pathways for your slate, better aligned with market realities and financing potential.
Who can apply?
This is a targeted opportunity for emerging film producers who have:
a script in advanced development or documentary treatment/ materials that are ready to share with potential financing partners such as sales agents and distributors.
a draft finance plan and pitch ready for the market
This opportunity is for emerging producers who have not yet been the lead finance producer on a feature film that has been successfully financed into production. You may have already attended other markets, or this might be your first market.
We anticipate producers who apply for this programme will have previous lead producing credits on NZFC funded short films, TV series, other independently made feature films or short films with significant international festival selections . Priority will be given to producers whose project(s) has been developed with NZFC funding support.
Please note you must also apply to 37 South: Bridging the Gap separately to First Market. More information about Bridging the Gap applications can be found here
Applications are due by 5pm on Mon 1 June 2026
Applications are made up of two parts:
Complete the First Market application form
Apply to MIFF 37 South to register for the market
Both submissions need to be made by 5pm on Mon 1 June 2026