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About Doc-Exchange

The Public Service Broadcasting Trust (PSBT) and the British Council, India invite documentary filmmakers and producers to apply for Doc-Exchange — a first-of-its-kind India–UK pitch forum designed to spark nonfiction co-production opportunities between the two countries.

10 outstanding feature-length documentary projects will be longlisted, of which 5 will win an opportunity to pitch at the forum –  gaining visibility, industry connections, and pathways to global audiences. Another select few will have the opportunity to attend Doc-Exchange as observers.

Apply now to join the next wave of cross-border documentary storytellers shaping the future of nonfiction cinema.

Application Deadline: December 25, 2025

Organised by: Public Service Broadcasting Trust (PSBT) in partnership with the British Council, India

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FAQ: Doc-Exchange: India–UK Documentary Co-Production Pitch Forum

What is Doc-Exchange?

Doc-Exchange is a first-of-its-kind India–UK pitch forum designed to spark co-production and creative financing opportunities for Indian feature-length documentaries. It connects filmmakers with decision-makers from both countries — including producers, funders, and market and distribution experts.

Who can apply?

Applications are open to:

  • Indian citizens currently developing, directing, or producing a feature-length documentary (75 minutes and above).
  • Of the Director and Producer, at least one should be an Indian citizen.
  • The project must be based in India.
  • Projects may be in development, production, or post-production.
  • Applications must be made by a team consisting of a director and a producer.
  • Filmmakers must be able to present their projects in English.
  • We will expect a pitch trailer.

How many projects will be selected?

  • Up to 10 projects will be longlisted, of which 5 will be selected for Doc-Exchange.

What do selected teams receive?

  • Pitch their projects to UK and Indian decision-makers
  • Win a small grant of Rs 10,000 to come for the pitch
  • Win the Sheffield DocFest Networking Award (2 complimentary Industry Passes + a full waiver to submit to the 2026 MeetMarket)
  • Win a travel grant to travel to the Sheffield DocFest in 2026

What is the pitch format?

  • Up to 10 projects will be longlisted, of which 5 will be selected for Doc-Exchange.
  • 10 selected teams will be invited to a preliminary pitch session to refine their pitch.
  • The projects will get 7 minutes to present their pitch to the panel. Trailers are essential.
  • The panel will consist of Indian and UK-based experts on funding, co-productions, producing and markets, present both offline and online.

What are the key dates?

Submission Deadline: 25 December 2025

Application for Observer Opens: 10 January 2026

Announcement of Long Listed Projects: 15 January 2026

Internal Online Pitch Round: 20 January 2026

Announcement of Shortlisted Projects: 25 January 2026

What do I need to submit?

  • Project Title 
  • Logline (50 words)
  • Synopsis (200 words)
  • Treatment Note (250 words)
  • Director’s  Note (300 words)
  • Producer’s Statement (300 words)
  • Stage of Production (development, production, post)
  • Link to Teaser/Visual Material (mandatory)
  • Budget Summary and Financing Plan (mandatory)
  • Bios of Director and Producer (200 words each)
  • Contact Details

Why should I participate?

  • Gain access to leading UK and Indian documentary experts.
  • Position your project for future co-production and funding opportunities.
  • Be part of a pioneering initiative that strengthens the Indo–UK creative documentary ecosystem.

How do I apply?

Applications must be submitted through the PSBT website or the designated submission link.

Who is organising this Pitch Forum?

Public Service Broadcasting Trust (PSBT) in partnership with the British Council, India

PSBT has supported independent documentary filmmaking in India for over 25 years, with 700+ films and 350 awards.
The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.