Italian Ministry Launches Cineperiferie Grant for Cinema in Suburbs

The Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, through its Directorate General for Contemporary Art and Architecture and Urban Peripheries (DGAAP) in collaboration with the Directorate General for Cinema (DGC), has announced a new call for proposals called Cineperiferie. The initiative aims to fund film festivals and documentary short films that explore Italy's peripheral landscapes, focusing on areas experiencing social, economic, and environmental fragility. The goal is to highlight the identity and potential of these suburbs, fostering inclusion and cultural participation. DGAAP director Federica Galloni stated that the program confirms the Ministry's commitment to supporting Italian artists and promoting cultural access for disadvantaged communities. DGC director Nicola Borrelli emphasized cinema's role in revealing societal nuances. The total funding is €200,000, with up to €15,000 per festival project and €25,000 per short film. Eligible applicants for the festival section include non-profit public and private entities, universities, foundations, and cultural associations; the short film section is open to professional film and audiovisual organizations. Applications must be submitted by May 18, 2018, via the website www.doc.beniculturali.it.