Call for projects to the Pitching Lab of Beyond Borders 2026
CALL FOR ENTRIES
PITCHING LAB “FROM IDEA TO PROJECT”
@
Beyond Borders
Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival
August 23-30/2026
Beyond Borders | Kastellorizo International Documentary Festival invites emerging documentary filmmakers from around the world to apply to the Audio-Visual Pitching Lab “From Idea to Project”, one of Greece’s most dynamic and outward-looking documentary development platforms.
The Pitching Lab offers a unique opportunity for creators to present their ideas to an international panel of film professionals, producers, distributors, directors, editors and festival programmers, and receive targeted guidance on transforming a concept into a strong, market-ready documentary project with international potential.
The top project, as selected by the Lab jury, will receive a tailored mentorship programme with a leading Greek production company, including strategic support on financing, development and positioning of the project.
Who can apply
The programme is open to:
• Film students, emerging filmmakers and visual artists from Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Australia, North Africa, North & Latin America, Asia and beyond.
• Creators developing documentary ideas inspired by history, memory, identity, intercultural relations and figures or events that have shaped societies and cultures.
Visual material is not required, though it is encouraged. Selection is based primarily on the originality, strength and international potential of the idea. Excellent command of English is required, as well as the submission of at least one still image from the developing project for promotional purposes.
What the Pitching Lab offers
• Online participation via Zoom, welcoming filmmakers from across the globe
• Free of charge
• Personalised feedback from international documentary professionals
• Selection of 10–12 projects, to be publicly presented on 26 & 27 August 2026, as part of the Festival’s 11th edition
• Live streaming via the official Beyond Borders YouTube channel
How to apply
Apply via the submission form: HERE
• Deadline: 15 May 2026
• Results announced by: 15 June 2026
• Selected projects will be featured in the official Festival catalogue and across social media platforms
Beyond Borders invites filmmakers to share their unique perspectives on the world and take their first step onto the international documentary stage — where ideas find their voice, form and global journey.
Organised by: Hellenic History Foundation (IDISME)
📸 Festival photos: HERE