Project Funding
International Coproduction Fund (IKF)
The International Coproduction Fund (IKF), established in 2016, funds coproductions worldwide that grow out of collaborative and dialogue-based working processes in the fields of music, dance, theatre and performance art. We use this fund to promote innovative productions and international cultural exchange as well as new approaches to intercultural collaboration and networking.
Conditions of Funding
professional performing artists, ensembles and initiatives in Germany and non-German-speaking countries in the fields of theatre, dance, music and performance art with insufficient means of their own to realize an international coproduction
In particular, we welcome applications for funding from developing and transition countries.
In particular, we welcome applications for funding from developing and transition countries.
The IKF provides funding for international coproductions that are likely to be of high artistic calibre and to have some impact on the respective arts scene. Hybrid and interdisciplinary formats and the use of digital media may be important elements of these coproductions. Collective artistic development of the project is a prerequisite, which is the reason why we don’t provide funding for projects that involve nothing but guest performances, tours or appearances at festivals.
- The projects for which funding is requested must centre on the performing arts (no exclusively film- or exhibition-based projects).
- Calibre of the project
- Standing of the participating artists in their performing arts scene
- Budget showing own/third-party funding and a sound financial plan
- Balanced project partnership, artistic collaboration
- At least one performance outside of Germany and, if possible, in Germany, too
- Project period should not exceed 24 months.
Applications to the International Coproduction Fund must be submitted online in English.
This blank application form provides an overview of the breakdown of the online form:
Please read the explanatory notes and run down the checklist before submitting your application.
This blank application form provides an overview of the breakdown of the online form:
Please read the explanatory notes and run down the checklist before submitting your application.
The applicant or first coproducer must be an artist or ensemble from a non-German-speaking country. They are to serve as the main contact for the project, conclude the agreement with the local Goethe-Institut and manage the grant money. The applicant may be an individual or a legal entity (company, association etc.).
IKF funding requires collaboration between at least two parties, one of whom must be an artist or ensemble from Germany. Involving third parties and other coproducers is not a prerequisite for coproduction funding, but does improve your chances of obtaining a grant. We deliberately use "coproducer" in a broad sense: what is decisive is that a coproducer should make a substantial contribution to the production.
Starting with the 13th round, the IKF has implemented a new, two-stage application process:
In the first step, a project pitch of max. 2500 characters as well as key information on the coproducers and the project budget will be submitted.
For the second, more extensive application step (in the same structure as previous applications), only those projects will be activated that were able to pass the pitch in the first step. In case of a positive feedback, you have another three weeks to submit the complete application.
As in the previous funding round, contacting the local Goethe-Institut is a requirement (mandatory information) for submitting a funding application. Please note that there will only be one funding round in 2023.
For enquiries about pending or previous applications, make sure to give us your application number.
Please take note of our privacy policy.
IKF funding requires collaboration between at least two parties, one of whom must be an artist or ensemble from Germany. Involving third parties and other coproducers is not a prerequisite for coproduction funding, but does improve your chances of obtaining a grant. We deliberately use "coproducer" in a broad sense: what is decisive is that a coproducer should make a substantial contribution to the production.
Starting with the 13th round, the IKF has implemented a new, two-stage application process:
In the first step, a project pitch of max. 2500 characters as well as key information on the coproducers and the project budget will be submitted.
For the second, more extensive application step (in the same structure as previous applications), only those projects will be activated that were able to pass the pitch in the first step. In case of a positive feedback, you have another three weeks to submit the complete application.
As in the previous funding round, contacting the local Goethe-Institut is a requirement (mandatory information) for submitting a funding application. Please note that there will only be one funding round in 2023.
For enquiries about pending or previous applications, make sure to give us your application number.
Please take note of our privacy policy.
Next application deadline
The application deadline for the 13th funding round for projects starting in 2023 was on November 7, 2022.
Due to the fact that the International Coproduction Fund is being restructured, the new deadline cannot yet be communicated. The dates of the next funding round are expected to be announced on the website after the summer break. Please check this website regularly for more information.
The new deadline will be for projects starting in 2024.
Due to the fact that the International Coproduction Fund is being restructured, the new deadline cannot yet be communicated. The dates of the next funding round are expected to be announced on the website after the summer break. Please check this website regularly for more information.
The new deadline will be for projects starting in 2024.
FAQ
You’re expected to present your production at least once abroad, ideally in the country where the production process actually took place. It does not have to be presented in Germany. Our IKF prioritizes productions that are presented in at least two different countries.
We don’t fund commercial projects, those exclusively involving film production or exhibitions without any performative approach. We don’t provide funding to cover ongoing operating costs either.
Above all, by meeting the preconditions: the participants should collaborate actively and on an equal footing in developing and realizing the project, and you need to secure co-funding (your own and third-party funds) and submit a transparent budget that clearly indicates your projected costs. Subject-matter of contemporary topical or social import and interdisciplinary work are also advantageous in obtaining IKF funding.
Furthermore, you’re more likely to get support for your proposed project if you consult with the local Goethe-Institut abroad to clear up any questions or issues before submitting your application. Applications that are incomplete or received late will not be processed.
Furthermore, you’re more likely to get support for your proposed project if you consult with the local Goethe-Institut abroad to clear up any questions or issues before submitting your application. Applications that are incomplete or received late will not be processed.
Putting potential collaborators in touch with one another is not the IKF’s job. But on the Goethe-Institut website you’ll find information about the German scene and about projects funded in the past. You can also contact the local Goethe-Institut abroad.
Our online application portal opens two months before the next deadline for applications. An international expert panel assesses the proposals and awards grants twice a year. Applicants are notified by email about three months after the application deadline.
Further information
