BFI NETWORK
Early Development Fund now open
This fund awards National Lottery funding to writers to support the early stages of development for debut long-form projects.
Find out moreSupporting, 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 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 online 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 news
BFI NETWORK alumni at Venice Biennale and Toronto International Film Festival 2025
BFI NETWORK alumni at Venice Biennale and Toronto International Film Festival 2025BFI NETWORK alumni at Cannes 2025
BFI NETWORK alumni at Cannes 2025BFI NETWORK unveils the 15 UK filmmakers selected for BFI NETWORK@LFF 2025
BFI NETWORK unveils the 15 UK filmmakers selected for BFI NETWORK@LFF 2025BFI NETWORK partner updates
North Star Shorts (Scotland)
Seeking original, imaginative and entertaining works of short fiction (live action only). Deadline for applications is on 26 September 2025.
Find out moreNorthern Directors
Film Hub North has partnered with the BBC and regional productions to offer shadowing and mentoring for Northern directors.
Find out moreSeven tips for applying to BFI NETWORK South West labs and programmes
Film Hub South West run a lot of labs and programmes to support writers, directors and producers.
Find out more