EbonyLife, Logical launch $50m Afro Film Fund in Paris
The fund aims to back about 35 African films over eight years, with first disbursements expected in late Q1 or early Q2 2027.
EbonyLife Group and Logical African Partners have launched the Afro Film Fund, a $50 million vehicle to finance African cinema, signing the deal on a Tuesday in Paris. French culture minister Catherine Pégard attended the signing, according to Variety.
The fund is designed to finance about 35 African films over the next eight years, roughly four to nine projects per year. First disbursements are planned for late Q1 or early Q2 2027.
At the same event, Mo Abudu, founder and CEO of EbonyLife Group, signed an agreement with France's CNC to support the Audiovisual Next Gen program, an 18-month accelerator for 15 professionals under 35. Abudu will serve as Global Ambassador of the program.
The first cohort of Audiovisual Next Gen participants, entirely women, is expected to be announced at the end of January 2027.
Longer build-up
Logical Pictures moved into the African market in 2024 with the launch of its investment vehicle Logical African Partners. In 2023, Pape Boye, now VP of Logical African Partners, partnered with Logical Pictures to launch Black Mic Mac, a production banner for African and Middle Eastern talent. The Audiovisual Next Gen program was announced in September at the Lumière Summit.
Quick answers
How much is the Afro Film Fund worth?
The fund is valued at $50 million and is meant to finance about 35 African films over eight years.
When will the first Afro Film Fund money go out?
First disbursements are planned for late Q1 or early Q2 2027.
Who is leading the Audiovisual Next Gen program?
French funding body CNC backs the 18-month accelerator for 15 professionals under 35, with Mo Abudu as Global Ambassador.