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ANSWERED.
Everything investors, filmmakers, brands, students, and the curious have asked us — collected and answered. Can't find what you need? Message us directly.
§ ABOUT
What is Bano Studios?
Bano Studios is a Nigerian indie film production studio founded in 2019. We have shipped 11 films, run an annual filmmaking bootcamp, and host an annual screenwriting competition. Our mission is to be the A24 of Nigeria — independent, distinctive, globally relevant African cinema.
Where is Bano Studios based?
Abuja, Nigeria. We work across Nigeria and travel for projects throughout Africa.
§ RENTALS
How can I rent equipment from Bano Studios?
Browse the catalogue at /equipment-rental, add items to your cart with your shoot dates, and check out via Paystack. We also offer pre-bundled rental packages for common shoot types (student skit, content creator, advanced filmmaker, premium cinema).
Do you offer rental discounts for week-long bookings?
Yes. Every equipment item has a daily rate and a discounted weekly rate. Pick up your booking total at checkout — the weekly rate kicks in automatically when you book 7+ days.
§ BOOTCAMP
How do I apply for the Filmmaking Bootcamp?
The bootcamp runs annually in September in Abuja. Submit an inquiry on /events and we will send you the curriculum, dates, and pricing as soon as the cohort opens.
§ COMPETITION
When does the Screenwriting Competition open?
Submissions open every August (1st – 14th). Five stages of judging across three months. Top 3 winners get production funding from Bano Studios.
Why is there a ₦5,000 entry fee for the screenwriting competition?
The fee filters out spam submissions and helps cover judging costs. Top 10 finalists get their entry fee refunded manually to the bank account you provide on submission.
Do you accept unsolicited scripts?
Outside of the annual screenwriting competition, no. Submitting a script outside the competition window means it gets read on a slower, ad-hoc basis. Best path is to submit during the August competition.
§ FESTIVAL
When is the Bano Studios Short Film Festival?
The inaugural edition is in 2027. Exact dates and venue (Enugu or Abuja) confirmed in Q1 2027. Join the notify list at /film-festival to be the first to know.
Who can submit to the Short Film Festival?
African filmmakers (any country, any diaspora) with films shot in Africa. Short films under 30 minutes, completed within the last 24 months, English-subtitled.
What is the prize structure for the Festival?
₦15M for 1st place, ₦10M for 2nd, ₦5M for 3rd. Plus category awards (cinematography, directing, performance, screenplay) — each winner gets a plaque and a token cash prize.
§ INVESTING
How can I invest in Bano Studios?
Three avenues: back a specific film (Production), commit to a long-term partnership (Studio Partnership), or sponsor a programme (Sponsorship). Each accepts cash, equipment, or a tenured loan structure. Details on /investor-relations.
Is there a minimum investment amount?
No minimum. Start a conversation by filling out the form on /investor-relations and we will figure out the right structure together.
§ GENERAL
How long does it take to hear back after I submit a form?
Within 48 hours for any inquiry — bootcamp, competition, festival, investor, contact, careers, anything.
§ CAREERS
Can I work with Bano Studios as a crew member?
Yes. Submit a crew application on /careers with your role, showreel, and portfolio. We add you to our talent pool and reach out when relevant projects come up.
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