AIDC 2026 FACTory Pitch Prizes and Mentors Announced

Do you have a unique documentary or series project in development that has global appeal and is market-ready? Would you like the opportunity to pitch your project to a world-class line-up of Australian and international broadcasters, streamers, sales agents, funders, festivals, and distributors at AIDC 2026?

The early deadline for AIDC 2026’s FACTory International Pitching Forum, proudly presented by VicScreen, is coming up very soon, Wednesday 5 November, 2025!

FACTORY PITCH PRIZES

We are pleased to reveal that all projects participating in The FACTory at AIDC 2026 will be in the running for a host of international pitch prizes – with four confirmed and more to be announced. The first round of prizes include:

→ Sunny Side of the Doc 2026 FACTory Prize (France) – includes two complimentary passes to participate and a waiver on project submission fees where applicable.

→ Docs by the Sea 2026 FACTory Prize (Indonesia) – includes two complimentary passes to participate and invitation to participate in a development lab.

→ DMZ Docs Industry 2026 FACTory Prize (South Korea) – includes two complimentary passes to participate, a waiver on project submission fees and 3-4 nights accommodation if attending in-person.

→ DOK Leipzig 2026 FACTory Prize (Germany) – includes two complimentary passes to participate.

PITCH MENTORS

We are also excited to reveal the exceptional pitch mentors confirmed to work with project teams to prepare them for the FACTory pitch, including: 

→ Heather Haynes, Independent Consultant, former Director of Programming at Hot Docs (Canada)

→ Inka Achté, Head of Acquisition & Strategy, Raina Film Festival Distribution and Artistic Director, DocPoint Helsinki (Finland)

→ Grant Keir, Film Consultant, Owner & Producer, Faction North Ltd (Scotland)

→ Heejung Oh, Founder and Producer, Seesaw Pictures (South Korea)

The pitch mentors will be paired with successfully shortlisted projects prior to The FACTory to provide guidance and feedback relating to the story, the trailer, and the pitch.

Teams will also be encouraged to participate in an online welcome session and practice pitch prior to AIDC 2026.

Project submissions are now sought across three categories, the Central Showcase for projects in development and production demonstrating strong international potential; the New Talent Showcase for new screen talents presenting their first or second major work; and the Rough Cut Showcase for projects that need to close financing gaps, and secure sales, distribution and festival opportunities. 

The FACTory International Pitching Showcase will take place at The Edge, Fed Square, during AIDC 2026.

Don’t delay, begin your FACTory project application today.

• Early entries close 23:59 AEDT on Wednesday 5 November 2025
• Late submissions accepted until 23:59 AEDT Sunday 9 November 2025 with an additional fee

ENTER THE FACTORY