Policy plan 2025-2028

As a national cultural fund, we have a unique societal mission that will only grow in importance in the coming years. Amidst the rapidly expanding film offerings from many countries across numerous platforms, it is crucial to ensure sufficient attention and budget for the production of original, distinctive Dutch films and series. “We choose quality over quantity, more creative freedom for creators, and greater focus on the audience,” says Director Sandra den Hamer.

Film Culture in the Broadest Sense

The Film Fund aims to enable films with diverse stories in which a broad audience can find recognition. For young and old, from film enthusiasts to occasional cinema-goers, in every corner and region: from Maastricht to Texel, from Groningen to Bonaire. We therefore promote film culture in the broadest sense of the word: from feature films to VR, from experimental works to children’s and family films, from documentaries to animation, to film education hubs and regional incubators.

Public Support Strengthens the Film Industry

Producing films is expensive, and without public funding, most productions – as in other countries – would not materialize. The Film Fund’s support makes filmmakers’ ambitions achievable, adds value, and encourages market players to invest as well. Public support thus strengthens the position and resilience of the Dutch film industry.

Priorities 2025-2028

The Film Fund’s vision for the coming years is summarized in five overarching priorities:

1. We will place an even greater emphasis on quality, for instance, by supporting fewer films with larger budgets.
2. We will center the creative process of the maker, providing more time and space to produce films without production pressures.
3. We will focus on talent, supporting both emerging talents and new, unheard voices, as well as the further development of established creators.
4. Greater audience awareness is necessary to enhance the appreciation and visibility of Dutch films across the Netherlands and internationally. We will focus on the entire lifecycle of a film production, where the revenue model extends beyond creating films to their exhibition.
5. We will create space for experimentation and new hybrid forms, from immersive and interactive works to innovations in storytelling and perspectives.

This policy plan was developed through an intensive process of roundtable discussions, brainstorming sessions, internal workshops, international visits, and meetings with numerous creators. During this process, creators, industry organizations, and other stakeholders shared a wealth of reflections and ideas. We will continue this enhanced dialogue and collaboration with the sector.