DOK Short n’ Sweet
We are excited to launch the Call for Projects for short form documentary and animated film projects to pitch live at the 9th edition of DOK Short n’ Sweet taking place this October.
What we are looking for:
- short film projects in all stages from development to completion
- all forms of short documentary, animated documentary and animated film as well as series
- shorts with a strong point of view, creative vision and cinematic approach
- lengths of maximum 30 minutes
The deadline for applications is 14 August 2025 (midnight, CEST/UTC +2).
You can find further information and a description on how to apply with a project in our Application Guidelines (PDF) for DOK Short n’ Sweet and check our FAQ.
We look forward to seeing the short film projects you bring forth this year!
Ready?
DOK Short n’ Sweet spotlights eight new exciting short film projects in diverse stages of production. A panel of international buyers, distributors and programmers share feedback and ask questions to increase the projects’ potential, unlock financing opportunities and creative collaborations.
Projects pitched at DOK Short n’ Sweet have been nominated for prestigious awards such as the European Film Award and premiered at A-List festivals including Festival de Cannes, Berlinale, Locarno Film Festival, IDFA and DOK Leipzig.
For all questions on how to apply for DOK Short n’ Sweet, read the following FAQ:
Which project team member should apply?
We encourage either the director or the producer to apply. Directors without a producer attached are eligible to apply.
Where can I find the entry form?
Once you have completed the registration for myDOK and logged in, you see the entries options. Please choose the button “Short n’ Sweet”. If you choose the wrong form, you will have to go back to the menu and start a new entry.
I sent my project before I was finished with my application. What should I do?
Once you have clicked the “Submit” button at the end of the form, you cannot make changes to the form anymore. If you need to make changes, please email us (rethfeldt [at] dok-leipzig [dot] de (rethfeldt[at]dok-leipzig[dot]de)). Please respect our capacity for answering emails: the earlier you contact us, the easier it is to react.
I am not sure if I can make the deadline. Can I get an extension?
The deadline is 14 August 2025, midnight CEST (UTC +2). Do not wait until the final moment to apply. The server might be overwhelmed. Even more important, please do not send us panicked emails, we are reasonable and if you get in touch early on, it is possible to give extensions.
How many team members can participate at DOK Short n’ Sweet?
We have limited capacity and can only welcome two team members per project, either a producer, two producers or a producer and director.
We keep our market and events small and exclusive, focusing on opportunities to meet and build a sustainable network. We are only able to do so by restricting the number of participants.
Is there a participation fee?
Yes, the participation fee is EUR 150 (ex. VAT) per project for up to two participants. You can find further details in the application guidelines. Please note, you have to cover your travel and accommodation expenses yourself.
Is there a cancellation fee?
Please note that late cancellations (10 days before the festival) will still be subject to paying the participation fee.
I am a first-timer at a project presentation platform. Is there a possibility to receive training?
We foster knowledge exchange through the DOK Industry Programme. We are happy to advise you on your participation or how to position your written materials for the project overview, e.g. via Zoom. We also offer a workshop (online) before DOK Short n’ Sweet that will focus on honing your pitching skills in a supportive environment.
Anne Rethfeldt
DOK Short n’ Sweet Coordinator
rethfeldt [at] dok-leipzig [dot] de (rethfeldt[at]dok-leipzig[dot]de)
Review the Project Selection 2024
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the MEDIA sub-programme of Creative Europe. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
