Networks of European Cinemas

A newly established funding scheme by the European Union aims to build and operate a network of European cinema exhibitors that significantly increases the share of non-national European films in their programming. Through financial incentives and cooperative projects, innovative presentation formats are developed to sustainably expand the audience – particularly younger film enthusiasts. Environmentally friendly and inclusive event approaches are prioritized to adapt strategies to a future-oriented and diverse cinema landscape. The regular exchange of best practices and cross-border knowledge transfer foster cohesion within the industry and strengthen the role of European cinemas as key distribution platforms for European works.

Eligible for funding are companies and non-profit organizations from at least five different EU Member States, registered in the EU Funding & Tenders Portal and meeting the conditions of the call document. Evaluation is based on the level of innovation, sustainability components, gender equality and diversity measures, as well as geographic coverage and collaboration within the network. Funding is provided exclusively in the form of a grant. Applications can be submitted from 07.04.2026 until 09.07.2026, 17:00 (Brussels time). Applicants engaged as part of a broadly established European cinema network benefit from professional support by experts and contribute significantly to strengthening European film culture.