Southern Documentary Accelerator 2025

‍Short Film Otago is launching the Southern Documentary Accelerator, a brand-new programme designed to support emerging documentary filmmakers in Otago and Southland to take the next step in their careers.It all starts with Stage 1 - The Development Lab The Development Lab is a one-day intensive workshop to upskill filmmakers. Topics covered include developing and pitching stories, finance, and fundraising. At the conclusion of the development lab there will be an opportunity to participate in a pitching forum.

Filmmakers are welcome to attend the Development Lab as part of a team or by themselves. They are also welcome to bring a project they are working on to develop further or just come along for the professional development.

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Event Details
When: Friday 24 October 2025
Time: 10:30am - 5pm (approx)
Where: Wānaka
Cost: Free to attend (RSVPs here)

The Development Lab will be followed by a short networking session to allow filmmakers to mix and mingle and grow their professional network.

There are also development grants and production funding available at the later stages of this project. To learn more, all the information and eligibility criteria are available on the Short Film Otago website.

Any questions about the Southern Documentary Accelerator can be sent to documentary@sfo.nz.

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