BFI Film Academy: Short Cut Film Fund in the UK

The grant aims to help you create a short film that showcases your storytelling vision.

This programme focuses on creative process rather than product. They are interested in seeing how the film reflects your development from idea to screen and encourage you to explore your ambition to deliver something that showcases your filmmaking potential. You don’t need to have access to high quality equipment either; you can make this on your phone or any device that can capture your story.

Funding Information

• The £1000 grant could go towards covering camera equipment, casting, post- production costs, crew costs etc.

Benefits

• The three selected filmmakers will receive mentorship from a filmmaker who has had their short film funded and supported by BFI NETWORK South East. They will offer:
  • Guidance on developing a short film idea into a shooting script.
  • Guidance on how to make a short film such as budgeting, casting, storyboards, shot list, casting, crewing and more.
  • Guidance on developing knowledge and skills that will be useful for you to explore and navigate the film industry, kicking off with the showcase event at a SCENE event in the South East region in 2024.

Who is this for?

• 16-25 year olds currently living in the South East region.
• No filmmaking experience required.
• Must not have any professional filmmaking credits as a writer/director/producer. This includes IMDB credits.
• Is not represented by an agent.
• Not currently enrolled in higher education or studying or have studied a filmmaking course.
• They encourage people from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. If you face barriers to opportunities due to mental health issues, physical health/disability, learning disabilities, neurodivergence, substance misuse, survivors, people from working class backgrounds, people from the LGBTQIA+ community, and people from Black, Asian, traveller, mixed heritage or other global majority backgrounds, they encourage you to apply.

For more information, visit Young Film Network South East.