Between 2024 and 2026, up to six challenge calls will be identified where innovative new thinking could catalyse a step change in the industry, whilst producing learning and insights that benefit the whole screen sector.
Challenge Call 5 – Better data for independent film
Funding available: up to £200,000.
The landscape for UK independent film is an increasingly challenging one. Decreasing investment and revenue, combined with increased production costs and competition for resources are exerting unprecedented pressure. Existing models are no longer working, and while the sector looks to develop new ones, it is held back by a lack of robust data to help understand and maximise opportunities.
These data gaps leave filmmakers working without the right information to value and position their work, investors lacking in confidence and producers and distributors unable to connect films to their potential audiences.
Our fifth Innovation Challenge call aims to establish new data collection and sharing models which would improve the quality, accessibility and wider use of data for the independent film sector.
When you can apply
The deadline for applications is midnight Thursday 25 September. Awards are expected to be made in December 2025.
You need to read the funding guidelines before you apply. The application link is included in the guidelines.
We will be hosting a Q&A where you can ask any questions you might have about the challenge call on Tuesday 12 August at 11am. Register to attend.
Get access support
We can provide assistance to you if you have access requirements and need some support to apply. See Access support for BFI funding applicants.
If you have any questions about the fund, email innovationchallengefund@bfi.org.uk
Previous challenge calls
Video games (challenge call 1)
The fund’s first challenge call supported innovation in the UK video games sector. Applications for this call are now closed.
Successful awardees have been announced (download the PDF).
You can also find information about the video game challenge call.
AI in screen and moving image archives (challenge call 2)
The fund’s second challenge call supported moving image archives to develop skills and AI literacy across the sector. Applications for this call are now closed.
The successful awardee has been announced. You can find information about the AI in screen challenge call.
Equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) data for film production (challenge call 3)
The fund’s third challenge seeks to accelerate the research and innovation around equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) data monitoring, and support the development of the best possible system to do this work. Applications for this call are now closed.
You can find information about the EDI data for film production challenge call.
Equitable futures for the screen sector (challenge call 4)
Our fourth challenge call explored emerging technologies in the screen sector, and how we can better understand their impacts on sustainability, EDI and the future of the workforce. Applications for this call are now closed.
You can find information about the Equitable Futures for the Screen Sector challenge call.