This summer, CNEX launches CNEX DOC ACADEMY, a new international professional development program for documentary creators. Bringing together internationally acclaimed directors, editors, and producers, the Academy supports filmmakers in advancing their projects through thematic workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and cross-cultural exchange.
CNEX DOC ACADEMY consists of four programs: Short Docs Lab, Editing Lab, Producers’ Lab, and Storytelling Lab. Open calls will be announced in phases. Participation is free of charge for all programs, and all workshops will be conducted in English.
Short Docs Lab SUBMISSION
The short documentary is the most immediate and unrestrained form available to a filmmaker. As international film festivals and streaming platforms continue to expand their commitment to short-form work, the short doc has outgrown its reputation as mere practice or a stepping stone to features. It is, in its own right, a calling card, a way to establish a distinct voice and step onto the international stage.
If you have a short documentary project that you’ve been passionate about, the CNEX Doc Academy Short Docs Lab was made for you.
We invite documentary filmmakers to submit their short film projects for an intensive workshop experience built around deep, substantive exchange with the mentors. Through focused one-on-one sessions, in-depth feedback on your work-in-progress, and expert lectures, we’ll help you sharpen your story structure, clarify your creative direction, and find the narrative approach and visual language that best serves your subject.
This edition’s four mentors are all Members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Laura Nix, Jay Rosenblatt, Petr Lom, and Corinne van Egeraat, and will be with you every step of the way.
The Lab will select two projects from Taiwan and two from across Asia, bringing together filmmakers from different contexts and cultures to work side by side, sparking dialogue that crosses borders and expands creative horizons for everyone in the room.
We believe the best work is born from collision and conversation. We look forward to meeting your story.
Participation in the program is free of charge. Accommodation and on-site learning and exchange spaces will be provided.
Participants based outside Taipei or overseas are responsible for their own travel expenses to attend the workshop, as well as any visa fees or related costs, if applicable.
The workshop takes place in Taipei, Taiwan.
▶ Eligibility Requirements
The Short Docs Lab will select a total of four teams, two Taiwan-based projects and two from Asia. We welcome any filmmaker with a story worth telling.
- Age: All participants must be 18 years of age or older.
- Project stage: Submitted projects must be in an advanced stage of production — near the end of principal photography or in post-production. Projects still in the early development or concept stage are not eligible for this call.
- Language: As the workshop is led entirely by international mentors, participants must have sufficient English proficiency to discuss their work and engage in creative dialogue.
- Full attendance: Selected teams are required to attend all workshop sessions in person. Inability to participate in person will result in disqualification.
▶ Application Submission
- Participation and application are free of charge. Submissions are now open. Please complete your online application via the registration website by 23:59 on July 26th, 2026.
- Results announcement: Selected teams will be notified on early August, 2026.
