Deadline for project submission to Balkan Watchers extended


Balkan Documentary Center announces extended deadline for project submission to Balkan Watchers; BDC Discoveries still open for submission

The Balkan Documentary Center (BDC) has extended the submission deadlines for its new training program Balkan Watchers, which is dedicated to journalistic and investigative projects. This extension allows filmmakers, podcasters, and storytellers more time to apply for these unique opportunities, targeting the Balkans and its surrounding territories, which also provide financial support for selected projects. BDC’s other training programs for professionals are also still open for submission.

New submission deadlines for 2025:

  • Balkan Watchers: January 19, 2025
  • BDC Discoveries: March 10, 2025

More information and submission criteria can be found here.


About BDC's flagship programs

Balkan Watchers for journalistic and investigative documentary films and podcasts

Balkan Watchers is a media development program that supports documentary films and podcasts focused on journalistic and investigative storytelling in regions with restricted press freedom. In collaboration with One World Romania, this program, funded by Creative Europe - MEDIA, provides training, pitching opportunities, and financial support for selected projects. It aims to foster independent journalism and empower filmmakers and podcasters tackling societal issues often silenced by censorship and limited resources.

In 2025, 20 projects—10 documentaries and 10 podcasts—will be selected to participate. Of these, six projects will receive financial backing: up to €25,000 for each documentary film and up to €5,000 for each podcast. Participants will benefit from three program modules, with expert mentorship to refine their projects, prepare their pitches, and present at industry events. The program culminates at Sofia DocuMental in October 2025 during the Balkan Documentary Market, where the winning projects will be selected and announced.

Eligible applicants include residents from the following regions:

  • EU Countries: Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, Croatia, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary, Cyprus, and Malta
  • Non-EU Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

The submission deadline is January 19, 2025. Applications can be submitted via the form here.

BDC Discoveries for creative documentary projects in early development stage

In collaboration with DokLeipzig and Beldocs, this program is dedicated to nurturing emerging talent in the Balkan documentary scene. It supports early-stage projects through comprehensive year-round guidance. Participants receive mentorship from experienced filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals to help develop their projects. They also benefit from networking opportunities at international festivals and co-production markets, as well as access to funding resources to kickstart or further develop their work. Workshops are tailored to enhance storytelling techniques, production skills, and pitch presentations.

The submission deadline is March 10, 2025. Applications can be submitted via the form here.

For more information on all programs, visit the Balkan Documentary Center website.


About Balkan Documentary Center (BDC)

Founded in 2011, the Balkan Documentary Center (BDC) has been a key player in the development of documentary filmmaking from the Balkans. With a focus on supporting independent filmmakers, the BDC provides crucial assistance at various stages of production, from project development to post-production. Through its flagship programs, the center offers financial support, mentorship, and industry connections, aiming to enhance the regional documentary scene and amplify impactful stories on a global scale. The BDC is dedicated to nurturing emerging talent and fostering socially relevant films and podcasts that address pressing issues in the Balkans and beyond.


For contact and inquiries
Neda Milanova, Balkan Documentary Center Manager
email@bdcwebsite.com / Facebook / Instagram / bdcwebsite.com

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