Young Talent Programme

All submissions must be made in English.
Required information includes:

• Company profile (max. 800 characters), or personal profile for individual applicants
• Project info (title, creative team, format, genre, technique, target group)
• Financing details: total budget, partners
• Synopsis (max. 500 characters)
• Director’s/Producer’s personal statement about the project (USP, visual concept, cross-/transmedia strategy, etc.) (max. 900 characters)
• Short answer to: “What are we looking for at APD?” (max. 300 characters)
• Use of AI: Disclose whether and how AI tools have been used in preparing your application and whether you plan to use AI in the development or production of your project.
• Sustainability, Diversity: Indicate whether and how environmental sustainability or diversity is addressed in your production process and/or the content of your project.

Files:

• At least 2 project visuals (landscape format, no text, JPG, RGB, 1079 x 685 px)
• Comprehensive Project PDF (max. 20 pages / 15 MB): A single PDF document that may include your project concept, bible, visual development, team biographies, track records, and any additional material you would like the selection committee to review. This file should give a complete and compelling overview of your project.
• Optional: trailer/teaser (link can be provided in the form)

Selection will be based on:

• Originality and creativity of the content and design
• Suitability for international co-productions
• Market potential within Europe and beyond

We aim for at least 50% female participation in the programme.
Special consideration will be given to projects that:

• Promote sustainability, inclusion, and diversity
• Originate from EU countries with low audiovisual production capacity

Up to 8 projects will be selected for participation. Results will be announced by 19 February 2027.

Yes, if your project is selected, the participation in the Young Talent Programme is free of charge.

The Young Talent Programme includes:

• Access to the Co-Production and Financing Market with pre-arranged one-to-one meetings  with industry professionals
• Access to the Online platform & e-catalogue entry
• Conference programme, talks & networking
• Mentoring, kick-off meeting & pitch rehearsal
• ITFS & FMX tickets
• Accommodation in Stuttgart for up to 4 nights

Please note: Travel costs are not included.

Up to 8 projects will be selected for participation. Results will be announced by 19 February 2027.

• You will be informed no later than 19 February 2027 if your project is selected.
• If your project is selected, we’ll send you a form to register the team members who will represent your project at APD. Please complete the form by 25 February 2027.

If you have already participated in the Young Talent Programme, you cannot participate again.

We focus on fresh, unreleased projects —therefore it is not possible to resubmit a project or a 2nd season. However, projects that were not selected in the past may be resubmitted if significantly further developed.