BFI NETWORK supports early career filmmakers across the UK with talent development programmes, labs, mentorships, and grants. We work with key UK industry partners such as BAFTA, BFI Flare, the BFI London Film Festival and the British Council to provide valuable professional development opportunities for growth and furthering your creative practice. On this page you’ll find details about BFI NETWORK opportunities alongside development labs that are supported through the BFI National Lottery Creative Challenge Fund.
Open opportunities
Short film and VR festival travel grant
In partnership with British Council, we offer travel grants to early career filmmakers just starting to build an international profile.
Find out more and applyBFI NETWORK@LFF
Our flagship talent development programme launching at the BFI London Film Festival (LFF). Next open for applications: June 2027.
Find out more about the programmeNo Password Required
No Password Required is a fantastic opportunity for UK-based, Global Majority-led production companies and producers preparing to make their first feature as lead producer. Deadline: August 24, 2026.
Find out more and applySheffield DocFest – Queer Realities Director’s Lab
Designed to empower 20 early-career, queer filmmakers over two editions (2027 and 2028), Queer Realities Director’s Lab aims to foster creative freedom and encourage risk-taking within cross-genre documentary filmmaking. Deadline: Tuesday 25 August.
Find out more and apply