For its inaugural edition, the Lab is open to all genres of fiction films provided the projects are set in Kenya and have a runtime between 60 and 120 minutes.
By Adedamola Jones Adedayo
Docubox, the East African documentary film fund, has opened a first-of-its-kind call for feature film development known as the Docubox Creative Producers Lab.
Incorporated as part of the Docubox International Partnership Summit 2026, the Lab will prepare seven selected Kenyan producers towards the development of feature-length fiction films, immersing participants in a five-day on-site experience, alongside a seasoned creative producer, continued virtual support with story consultants and script doctors, and networking opportunities involving project financiers, international partners and other industry stakeholders at the summit.
At the conclusion of the Lab, five selected projects will each receive a grant of $5,000 to support script development, production bibles, fundraising materials, and other preparatory components required to move the projects toward production.
For its inaugural edition, the Lab is open to all genres of fiction films, provided the projects are set in Kenya and have a runtime between 60 and 120 minutes. Applicants are required to demonstrate prior filmmaking experience through the submission of at least two successful short films or one completed feature film. Entries must be submitted via Docubox Submissions Portal before 24th May, 2026.
According to information published on its official platform, Docubox has supported more than 100 projects since its inception, including feature and short documentaries and short fiction films. The initiative has distributed grants worth over $1.2 million, and facilitated more than 70 workshops and masterclasses, alongside over 200 film screenings that have collectively reached more than two hundred thousand participants in person and online.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Susan Mbogo, the initiative has spearheaded fundraising, partnership and institutional growth in honour and recognition of African documentary filmmakers. The introduction of the Creative Producers Lab further reinforces Docubox’s commitment to nurturing African narratives, with Kenyan filmmakers positioned at the forefront of the initiative.