BFI NETWORK
Supporting, developing and funding early career filmmakers across the UK.
Beacons short film funding is now open
Writers and directors from Wales can apply for up to £25,000 to develop and produce their live-action, animated or documentary short film ideas. Applications are open until midday 12 June.
Find out more and applyMade possible through National Lottery funding, BFI NETWORK collaborates with film organisations and leading cultural venues across the UK to provide short film and early feature development funding, industry-backed professional development and networking support to producers, writers and directors aged 18 and above.
Support and resources from BFI NETWORK
BFI NETWORK funding
Find BFI NETWORK short film and early feature development funding opportunities for new UK writers, directors and producers.
Find out moreConnect with BFI NETWORK
We have BFI NETWORK teams across the UK. Find information on talent development and networking opportunities in your area.
Find out moreFunded by BFI NETWORK
An exciting mix of genres, styles, and stories from dynamic and inspirational new voices across the country. We are looking forward to the films being completed and making their way onto the big screen.
Check out what we've fundedProfessional development and opportunities
Talent labs, programmes, mentorships and travel grants for filmmakers.
Find out moreToolkits, resources and articles
Filmmaking toolkits
Explore our comprehensive filmmaking toolkits designed to empower aspiring filmmakers with the knowledge to bring their creative visions to life.
Find out moreBFI NETWORK resources
Inspiration and tips to help bring your inclusion, diversity and sustainability into your short films.
Find out moreArticles and news archive
A collection of archive articles and news posts from BFI NETWORK.
Find out moreBFI NETWORK partner updates
BFI NETWORK South West Director Lab
This Lab, in partnership with Bournemouth Film School, is open to directors experienced in live-action fiction, scripted commercials or promos, or drama-docs, who want to develop their scripted showreel. Applications are open until Friday 22 May 17:00.
Find out moreFilm London Labs: The Script Sessions
Led by writer, producer and story editor Angeli Macfarlane, this three-day online lab is designed for writers, directors and creatives developing their first feature script draft. Date of event: 26 to 28 May.
Find out moreBFI NETWORK news
BFI NETWORK: celebrating major achievements throughout 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, we look back on a year that has showcased the incredible range of stories and talent from BFI NETWORK supported filmmakers from across the UK. It’s been amazing to see so many BFI NETWORK alumni filmmakers connect with audiences both at home and internationally and take the significant steps in furthering their careers by creating award-winning debut features.
Find out moreBFI NETWORK unveils the 15 UK filmmakers selected for BFI NETWORK@LFF 2025
Meet this year’s rising writers, directors and producers who will participate in the flagship talent development programme during the 69th BFI London Film Festival.
Find out more