Supporting Emerging Documentary Talents
Sunny Side of the Doc has always recognized Europe as a core component of its market. Today, with more than 50% of participants coming from outside of France, the event operates as a true crossroads for documentary.
In this context, the Europe’s Got Talent grants program is evolving: initially dedicated to European talents from underrepresented regions, it is now expanding to include all countries and has been renamed Talent Grants. The goal remains the same: to promote diversity in documentary voices by facilitating access to the market. Each year, grants are awarded to emerging talents to help them participate in Sunny Side of the Doc at a reduced cost, providing them with valuable opportunities to access international markets.
A New Wave of International Talent Coming to Sunny Side
For the next edition of Sunny Side of the Doc, a fresh group of emerging documentary filmmakers from across the globe will be invited to join the event. Since 2019, more than 50 teams have benefited from this initiative, receiving a total of €25,000 in funding to help cover their participation costs. These grants have helped talented producers from underrepresented regions gain visibility and access to global opportunities at Sunny Side of the Doc.
Scouting Talent Year-round
Sunny Side’s team is constantly searching for new talent worldwide. They travel to numerous international markets and festivals (AJB DOC Film Festival, Tokyo Docs, AIDC, CPH:DOX, East Doc Platform...), seeking the most promising emerging documentary voices where they award Sunny Side of the Doc prizes to pitched projects. A dedicated committee will convene mid-april to allocate travel grants to selected prize recipients.
Access to Decision-Makers and Market Opportunities
This initiative not only provide crucial financial support but also give grantees the chance to showcase their projects to an influential audience of decision-makers including major broadcasters, platforms, funders, and international producers at Sunny Side of the Doc.
