Awarding National Lottery funding to writers to support the early stages of development for debut long-form projects
BFI NETWORK Early Development funding supports the early stages of development for debut long-form projects. It directly supports writers who do not yet have the first draft of a script, or equivalent format for immersive work, to produce an initial treatment outlining the story, characters, themes and structure of their project along with related materials such as a mood board or other visual content.
The first stage of the fund supports long-form live-action, immersive and animation fiction projects with awards of £3,000 to £5,000 to develop a treatment.
Projects that are supported at treatment stage and which are completed to schedule will then be able to apply for a second stage of funding to complete a first draft of the full feature-length screenplay, or equivalent format for immersive work.
When you can apply
The Early Development Fund opens on 7 October 2025 and closes at 11am on 18 November 2025.
If you have any questions relating to this funding or your application, email: [email protected].
How to apply
How to Apply
You can apply online once you’ve read the funding guidelines or listened to the guidelines in full.
There is an application link in the fund guidelines.
While we have publicised this opportunity, please note that: (i) the application and selection process is managed by the advertising company/organisation; and (ii) we rely on them to: provide accurate, up-to-date details about themselves and the opportunity; ensure that opportunities are ethical and paid fairly. To report a listing, please email [email protected].