The NFVF has approved funding for 268 projects, representing a total investment of R150,493,669.00 and the projected creation of 13,033 jobs across the audiovisual sector. The projected number of jobs to be created through Streams 1, 2 and 3 exceeds the PESP6 target of 11,360 jobs by 1,673 jobs, representing an achievement of approximately 114.7% of the target.
The approved funding and projected employment opportunities across the three streams are as follows:
110 projects
R64,977,833.97 in approved funding
5,154 projected jobs
74 projects
R46,279,381.25 in approved funding
3,294 projected jobs
Stream 2 has a higher cost per job than production, as training programmes generally cannot accommodate large numbers of participants for the full duration of implementation. While the stream did not meet its individual job target, the additional jobs recommended through Streams 1 and 3 collectively cover this shortfall.
84 projects
R39,236,453.94 in approved funding
4,585 projected jobs
Stream 3 is expected to create more than double its target of 2,000 jobs, demonstrating the significant employment potential of marketing and distribution activities within the audiovisual value chain.
The announcement follows a rigorous application assessment and adjudication process, which included the introduction of an enhanced due diligence component. For Streams 1, 2 and 3, the due diligence process was conducted from 13 July to 31 July 2026 and included physical site visits to the respective sites of compliant applicants. The final advisory panel meetings were held on 4 and 5 August 2026.
The enhanced due diligence process was introduced as a key learning from PESP4 and forms part of the NFVF's risk mitigation measures. It is intended to strengthen the verification of applicants and minimise the risk of approving projects that may subsequently experience challenges in complying with monitoring and evaluation requirements.
PESP6 attracted 1,787 applications, of which 1,427 were compliant across the Blockbuster category and Streams 1, 2 and 3. This represents the highest number of applications received since the inception of the PESP and a 53.7% increase compared with the 1,163 applications received for PESP5. Applications were received from all nine provinces, reflecting the growing awareness of the programme and the continued demand for employment and funding opportunities across South Africa's audiovisual sector. The increase in applications can be attributed, among other factors, to the NFVF's intensified awareness and communication efforts across multiple platforms, including its digital and social media channels and broadcast media. The staggered approach adopted for PESP6, including the introduction of the Blockbuster category, also contributed to the increased reach and participation.
The NFVF acting chief executive officer, Nondumiso Madlala, welcomes the announcement and expresses her gratitude to filmmakers and the broader film industry for their patience and understanding throughout the delays experienced during the PESP6 process. The NFVF remains committed to ensuring that public funding is administered responsibly and transparently, and in a manner that contributes meaningfully to the equitable growth and development of the audiovisual sector.
Furthermore, she acknowledges the contribution of the NFVF team, the adjudication panels chaired by members of the NFVF Council, and the Project Management Company to the PESP6 process.
“This announcement represents the hard work and commitment of all parties involved, both the NFVF and the film industry, and it is a joyous moment for all of us. It is joyous because the approved projects will create jobs, contribute to the growth of our local film sector, and create opportunities for new entrants to tell their stories and contribute to strengthening the South African audiovisual industry.
“At the same time, it is a difficult moment because the total PESP funding allocated to the NFVF remains limited when compared to the growth in demand, as evidenced by the increasing number of compliant applications received each year, and even more so during this PESP6 round. As has been the case with previous PESP cycles, the available PESP6 funding allocation could therefore not support all compliant applications.
“Nevertheless, we remain encouraged and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead, particularly as additional funding will be made available through the PESP6 Blockbuster projects.”
The adjudication process for the PESP6 Blockbuster projects is underway. Pitch sessions for compliant Blockbuster applications were conducted from 3 to 7 August 2026. The NFVF will announce the successful Blockbuster funding recipients in September 2026, as previously communicated. The Blockbuster category is expected to further increase the number of jobs and the overall economic impact generated through PESP6.
