BFI Filmmaking Fund

The BFI Filmmaking Fund – Discovery and Impact feature funding provides National Lottery investment to support the production of original UK feature films in live action and animation. The fund is designed to back distinctive, ambitious filmmaking and support both emerging and established creative teams.

Two funding strands:

• Discovery feature funding offers awards of up to £1 million for projects with debut directors, typically with production budgets of around £1 million to £3.5 million.
• Impact feature funding offers awards of up to £1.25 million for projects led by more experienced directors, or debut directors working at a higher budget level above £3.5 million.

Who can apply:
Applications must be made by the project’s lead producer, who is responsible for the application and delivery of the project. Projects must meet the fund’s eligibility criteria, including requirements around UK status and creative control.

Application timing:
Impact feature funding is available on a rolling basis, while Discovery feature funding is offered through set application rounds during the year. In both cases, applications must be submitted at least 20 weeks before the planned first day of principal photography.

Assessment:
Funding decisions are based on creative ambition, originality, and the strength of the filmmaking team. Supported projects must acknowledge National Lottery funding.

There are 3 deadlines in 2026, 5th March, 30th July & 16th December.

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