Tartu Film Fund

Tartu Film Fund’s region encompasses five distinct counties, each offering a unique array of filming locations.

Tartu County

Tartu County seamlessly blends historic charm with youthful vibrancy, with the vibrant city of Tartu serving as Estonia’s cultural hub. Its cobblestone streets, art nouveau architecture, and proximity to pristine river landscapes provide a captivating backdrop for urban scenes and tranquil riverside views.

Põlva County

Põlva County boasts the mystical Taevaskoja cliffs and the serene Ahja River, creating natural settings reminiscent of a fantasy realm. Filming here immerses audiences in breathtaking landscapes untouched by time, featuring peaceful forests and lush valleys that lend depth and mystery to any scene.

Võru County

The towering Haanja Uplands and Suur Munamägi, the highest peak in the Baltics, offer distinctive terrain for expansive and dramatic shots. Moreover, the local Võru culture, characterised by its unique dialect and traditions, infuses a distinct cultural depth to enhance the film’s narrative.

Valga County

Valga County straddles the border between Estonia and Latvia, offering a captivating blend of historical landmarks, lush parks, and tranquil small towns. This unique setting provides access to two cultures, with architecture and landscapes that reflect both Estonian and Latvian heritage—an ideal locale for crafting a story that demands cross-cultural richness.

Jõgeva County

For pastoral scenes, Jõgeva County serves as an ideal backdrop. The county is replete with expansive fields, traditional Estonian farmhouses, and charming villages. It also offers access to rivers and nature reserves, making it suitable for intimate rural scenes and tranquil landscapes.

Tartu Film Fund supports the creation of professional audiovisual works within the region through a cash rebate system, providing a refund of up to 35% of costs incurred in South Estonia.

Eligible costs include:

• Pre-production
• Production
• Post-production

At the time of submitting the application, a minimum of 50% of the funding required for the work must be guaranteed.

Applications may be submitted up to twice annually, during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Information regarding the application call will be published on the Film Fund homepage at least 30 calendar days prior to the application deadline. The funding decision will be made within 40 days commencing from the application deadline. Reimbursement of costs will be processed within 30 days following the confirmation of the cost report.

More comprehensive view of different locations in the region, check out this page.