April 22, 2026, 1:31 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
While the streaming market was initially dominated by U.S. productions from Hollywood, that’s no longer the case. Hardly a week goes by without at least a few international projects appearing in the charts. And don’t forget, the most successful Netflix series, “Squid Game,” comes from South Korea. Germany has also been successfully involved for several years–but not enough yet. Now, Netflix wants to promote projects from East Germany.
Netflix Promotes Films and Series from East Germany
This is now reported by the industry magazine “DWDL.” The streaming company is collaborating with the PROG Producers of Germany e.V., which describes itself as the “key representative of independent cinema, streaming, and television producers in Germany.”
The initiative is not new but builds on the joint collaboration from 2025. Last year, both a study and a workshop were launched. The goal is to strengthen filmmakers (including screenwriters, directors, and producers) from East Germany. This includes reducing entry barriers to the market and career development while exchanging “East-West perspectives,” as PROG wrote.
Now It’s Time for Content Development
By specifically promoting content from East Germany, PROG and Netflix aim to showcase authentic perspectives beyond typical clichés. Following the study and workshop, it’s now time to get down to business. Six creative teams will be supported in four-month training sessions to develop film and series ideas. This includes professional guidance and coaching on how to pitch effectively.
Furthermore, each of these teams will receive a grant of 10,000 euros. During the Berlinale 2027, the teams will present their results to potential production and financial partners. If successful, these projects can be further developed and implemented. The calls for applications are set to start in July, and an independent jury will select the participants for the training. The program is scheduled to begin in the fall.
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However, it is not known whether and to what extent Netflix will continue to support the projects after the final pitch. When asked, they only emphasize that they want to give them the best possible chances. And that’s best achieved by presenting them to the market in its entirety.