EFM Startups

Source: EFM

EFM Startups

Screen International is partnering with the European Film Market for the EFM Startups programme to be held as part of the Berlinale in February 2026. 

The five-day platform showcases cutting-edge technologies aimed at the production, development, and distribution sectors.

Ten international entrepreneurs will be selected and will pitch their ventures to producers, programmers, financiers, sales agents, and distributors. They will then be connected with top industry professionals and receive access to funding information and opportunities. 

For the first time in 2026, an industry jury will select a winning startup. 

  • Click here to apply, 

The selected startups will also engage in one-on-one meetings with producers and participate in roundtables with industry experts. In preparation for the market, the startups will receive tailored support through individual and group sessions, including comprehensive pitch training.

Last year’s EFM Startups included the US’s Greenlit, an AI-enabled back-office solution to help simplify workflows around contracting, financing, tax incentives and project management. Also taking part last year was US startup Producers PIN (Production Incentives Network) which provide tools and information for producers to raise capital for films, and Lithuania’s Perfection42 which allows production companies to train models on their own intellectual property.

From the UK, 2025 participants included ALL-VP, an AI-powered lighting solution for virtual production. African Screen Intelligence was also pitched as an AI-powered platform to provide market intelligence on Africa’s screen industries.

The deadline for applications is January 2, 13:59 CET.

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