BFI NETWORK
Supporting, developing and funding early career filmmakers across the UK.
Made 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 moreBFI NETWORK shorts on BFI Player
A new selection of BFI NETWORK supported short films is now available to watch for free on BFI Player.
Watch online on BFI PlayerToolkits, 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 Doc Society RAD Fund
The BFI Doc Society RAD (Research and Development) Fund is accepting applications for National Lottery funding, offering grants between £3,000 and £5,000, and is designed to support first and second-time feature documentary makers in the earliest stages of a project's development. Deadline: Wednesday 5 August.
Find out more and applyNorthern Producer Lab
Applications are now open for In Development: Producer Lab, Film Hub North's two day residential programme for aspiring film producers in the North of England. Whether you've produced your own shorts or are stepping into producing for the first time, this is your chance to learn what it takes to bring projects from idea to screen. Deadline: Wednesday 29 July.
Find out more and applyNew Voices: Step Up
Offering six places to early to mid-career directors and screenwriters based in the South West. Eligible applicants must identify as coming from a lower socio-economic background or currently be unemployed and claiming benefits. Deadline: Tuesday 11 August.
Find out more and applyBFI 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