Puglia regional film fund and development allocation

The regional government of Puglia has approved a €5.45 million budget for the 2026 edition of the Apulia Film Fund. This allocation includes €5 million for the 2026 call for projects and €450,000 for technical assistance provided by the Apulia Film Commission. The fund aims to increase the competitiveness of the local audiovisual sector, attract investment, and promote the region’s cultural heritage. Specific grant structures include non-repayable amounts ranging from a minimum of €10,000 for short films to as much as €500,000 for animation projects.

Beyond audiovisual support, the region has expanded its development initiatives. To promote local heritage, Puglia is funding agroalimentary events, allocating approximately €151,000 for historical and cultural food fairs and exhibitions, specifically to showcase high-quality regional products such as DOCG and DOP items.

Other ongoing regional efforts include a €370,000 fund for international cooperation and human rights promotion through local community partnerships. The region is also inviting local entities, businesses, and citizens to share successful projects to help build a community for implementing regional policies.

In Taranto, however, economic concerns have been raised by Confcommercio regarding a generational gap driven by an aging population and high youth unemployment. The association is calling on the Puglia region to implement incentives for first-level apprenticeships to better integrate young people into the workforce, particularly within the service and tourism sectors.