CANEX Shorts 2026 Opens Global Call for Young Filmmakers Across Africa, Diaspora, and the Caribbean

CANEX Shorts 2026 Opens Global Call for Young Filmmakers Across Africa, Diaspora, and the Caribbean. Entries are now open for CANEX Shorts 2026, the fourth edition of the short film competition powered by the African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) through its Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme.

The call invites filmmakers aged 18–35 from Africa, the Diaspora, and the Caribbean to submit original short films of up to five minutes.Entries are accepted across three categories: Best Fiction, Best Documentary, and Best Animation.

According to the organisers, winners will receive a $2,000 cash prize, an official CANEX Shorts Award, and screening at CANEX WKND 2026.Selected filmmakers will also gain access to networking opportunities with investors, partners, and creative industry professionals across Africa and the diaspora.

Eligibility requires films to be five minutes or less, produced in 2024 or later, with one submission allowed per filmmaker and English subtitles required for non-English entries.

The deadline for submissions is 30 June 2026, and entries must be submitted via FilmFreeway FilmFreeway.

Organisers have stated that successful applicants will be responsible for their own travel, accommodation, visa fees, and other participation-related costs.

CANEX Shorts continues to position itself as a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase short-form storytelling on a continental stage.Submissions are being managed through the official FilmFreeway platform, where filmmakers can upload their entries and complete the application process.