VAF Innovatieatelier 2026 for storytellers moving into games and XR
The Flemish Audiovisual Fund gives up to six storytellers €7,500 and coaching to develop a first game or XR project. Apply by 22 October 2026 at noon.
The VAF Innovatieatelier is a coached development programme run by the Vlaams Audiovisueel Fonds through VAF/Gamefonds and VAF/Filmfonds. It helps audiovisual storytellers move into games and interactive XR, from a first idea to a worked out concept.
Up to six projects are selected. Each receives an atelier premium of €7,500, and VAF pays for the coaching. After the atelier, the concept can go to VAF/Gamefonds or to VAF/Filmfonds for further funding.
The programme is for professional storytellers such as screenwriters and directors who take on an interactive project for the first time. Applicants must live and work in Belgium, be at least 18, not be students and not be on a broadcaster's payroll. Eligible projects include entertainment, artistic and serious games, and interactive XR work in animation, documentary, fiction or Filmlab. Innovation comes first, in visuals, technology, story or gameplay. Cross media extras for TV series are excluded.
Apply in MyVAF under Nieuwe aanvraag, Game, Talentontwikkeling, Ateliers en workshops, Innovatieatelier. You need a two sentence pitch, a concept of up to four A4 pages, a one page motivation, CVs, the premium split for teams and a one page inclusion approach.
The deadline was moved to 22 October 2026 at 12:00. VAF lists the decision date as 7 December 2026.
Quick answers
Do I need a producer or studio?
No. Solo applicants and teams are both accepted, and no producer or studio needs to be attached yet.
How many projects can I submit?
One project per applicant.
Does the premium affect later VAF funding?
Yes. It is normally deducted from any later VAF funding for the same project.