The Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival, together with Jan Barta, has initiated the Ji.hlava / JB Films support scheme to support the distribution of auteur films from Central and Eastern Europe. This program seeks to address challenges in film distribution, particularly those intensified by the recent pandemic, by facilitating broader access for notable projects to both national and international audiences.

The support is directed towards feature documentary and hybrid films primarily produced in Central and Eastern Europe, focusing on those in production or post-production phases expected to premiere globally within two years from the application date. The initiative offers financial support of up to €40,000 per film project, structured as a co-production contribution. This arrangement provides Ji.hlava / JB Films with a share of the revenue relative to the total cost, with an agreement on distribution between the primary film producer and Ji.hlava / JB Films.

Eligibility criteria stipulate that the main production company must be based in specified Central and Eastern European countries, with the film project being an international co-production involving at least two countries. Projects must have secured at least 50% of their total budget, with a restriction of one application per applicant. Furthermore, if a project is selected for support, it is required that the Czech premiere of the film will occur at the Ji.hlava IDFF.

Applications must be submitted online by April 30, 2024, including various documents and materials that detail the film project’s creative, financial, and distribution strategies. The projects chosen to receive support will be announced by June 30, 2024, providing a strategic investment to aid in overcoming distribution challenges faced by auteur films from the region.