Please note, this open call is strictly for Czech and/or Slovak-speaking individuals.
The Inspiration Forum Matchmaking programme creates a dynamic intersection between science and film, paving the way for bold, new documentaries to come to life.
This unique initiative brings together a diverse range of researchers and professional documentary filmmakers in a collaborative effort to share knowledge with the wider public through imaginative and impactful storytelling. We seek to find the most compelling combination of ideas, people, and formats –whether through the creation of new films, podcasts, or alternative storytelling media– that tell urgent and resonant stories about our world.
During the Ji.hlava festival, we organize face-to-face meetings, offer expert recommendations, and provide hands-on guidance to facilitate meaningful connections and interactions. For those who choose to continue their collaboration beyond the Ji.hlava festival, we offer both media and financial support to help bring their documentary projects into fruition.
Why get involved?
Are you a scientist?
- Do you want your research to reach a wider public?
- Are you interested in using audiovisual media forms to popularize your work?
- Are you considering collaborating with a filmmaker on a documentary, podcast, or series?
- Do you want to collaborate with experts in documentary filmmaking and find new ways to present your research?
Are you a documentary filmmaker?
- Are you looking for powerful scientific topics that offer new perspectives on the world?
- Do you want to collaborate with experts who will introduce you to fascinating discoveries?
- Are you interested in receiving support in the development of your creative documentary concept?
How does Matchmaking work?
More than 70 scientists and over 1200 film professionals participate in the Ji.hlava IDFF every year. Our service connects selected scientific projects with filmmakers who are interested in the given topics.
With the help of a so-called matchmaker –a person who is knowledgeable in both science and documentary film– we will select suitable counterparts for you and arrange personal meetings during the festival.
Collaborations that decide to continue after the festival can also receive:
- financial support of up to CZK 100,000 for the development of a documentary subject (from the IOCB Tech Endowment Fund),
- the possibility of further development in cooperation with Czech Television and Czech Radio
- free Industry accreditation for the next festival, which includes entry to the entire festival and professional program, and participation in the Matchmaking Accelerator
Schedule
- until 15. 9. – Registration of scientific projects via the online form
- until 19. 9. – Announcement of selected projects
- 06 - 15. 10. – Arranging and confirming meetings between scientists and creators
- 27.10 - 29.10 – Personal meetings during the Ji.hlava IDFF festival
- 12/2025 – Pitching presentation of selected collaborations at Czech Radio
- 01/2026 – Consultation of selected collaborations with the creative producer of Czech Television
Financial support for the project
Matchmaking participants can apply for financial support for the development of a documentary project. Projects will be scored and commented on by a panel of experts, then submitted to the foundation's board of directors for consideration. The total sum of financial support provided per project can be up to CZK 100,000. The foundation may award this amount to one or more projects, divide it among several projects (e.g. 2 × 50,000 CZK or 3 × 30,000 CZK), or not support any project if none of the submitted projects are recommended by the expert jury and aren’t in line with the foundation's objectives.
- by 20. 11. – Submission of a concept of max. 3 standard pages
- 31.1.2026 – Announcement of the supported project
Take a look at the projects that were created and awarded in last year's edition of Matchmaking 2024 – A New Space for New Stories
How to participate?
If you are a Czech or Slovak-speaking scientist or a scientific team and are interested in using the Inspiration Forum Matchmaking service, please fill out this form. The service is free for you. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail at if.matchmaking@ji-hlava.cz.
What does the Matchmaking programme offer?
- creating new, interdisciplinary collaborations between the science and documentary filmmaking fields
- the conceptualisation of original ideas for films, podcasts or other media formats
- access to a network of contacts and inspiration for further development
- media and financial support as well as visibility for the final, co-created documentary project
Do you have questions?
Contact us at if.matchmaking@ji-hlava.cz –we would be happy to advise you or help you with your registration.
The Inspiration Forum Matchmaking is created thanks to the support of the IOCB Tech Endowment Fund. Together, we are able to create new connections between the science and film industries, and connect them with their audiences.