The Film Festival & Screening Programme Fund supports organisations based in Scotland who produce and deliver film festivals and public screening programmes. It prioritises activity that addresses underserved and underrepresented audiences, and projects that align with our Focus Areas.
We are also offering a one-time opportunity for applicants to request additional funding for activity taking place up to 31 August 2027 through Development Funding.
Learn more about what we mean by underrepresented audiences, what our Focus Areas are, and Development Funding in the fund guidance.
Please note, if you are a new festival or screening programme without a track record, or if your team lacks festival management experience, you are encouraged to explore other funding options to build experience before considering this fund.
What’s new?
In March 2025, we relaunched the fund with the following changes:
- Extended timeline: Funding is available for activities until 31 August 2026. Established events may apply for Development Funding up until 31 August 2027.
- Funding: Grants now range from £15,000 to £45,000.
- Personal Access Costs: Applicants may apply for personal access costs for the project team in line with Creative Scotland’s guidelines.
- BFI Diversity Standards: After our pilot in 2022-2024 we are now implementing the BFI Diversity Standards – Screen Scotland. All applicants to this fund need to evidence they have made an application to the BFI Diversity Standards prior to applying to us.
- Priority Focus: Priority will be given to projects that support workforce and audience development priorities related to our focus areas.
Full details can be found in our guidance document which is available to download below.
Who can apply, and what can I apply for?
This fund is open to organisations based in Scotland that will produce film festivals and/or curated screening programmes for public audiences in Scotland and meet the aims and eligibility criteria of this fund.
This fund is project funding, not core organisational funding. However, we encourage using the fund to cover core costs that directly relate to the delivery of your project and development of your team and organisation during the project dates. We encourage you to secure additional funding from other sources, such as sponsors, partners, charities, private or other public funding, to help deliver and expand your programme.
Download the fund guidance to learn more about what project costs this fund can support.
How much can I apply for?
Applicants can apply for £15,000 to £45,000 (if applying for Development Funding, this amount is per year).
If you are looking for less than £15,000, please consider the funding opportunities offered by Film Hub Scotland.
When can I apply?
This fund will support activity happening between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2026, and for up to 31 August for applications for Development Funding.
| Application deadline | Decision by |
| 24 April 2025 | 26 June 2025 |
| 19 September 2025 | 27 November 2025 |
| 12 January 2026 | 12 March 2026 |
Your first public activity must be at least 8 weeks after the ‘Decision by’ date.
Costs incurred before funding is confirmed are not eligible for support.
Late or early applications will be held until the next deadline.
The fund closes at midnight on Monday 12 January 2026 or when fully allocated (updates will be provided).
If you are unsure which deadline to apply to please contact us in advance at [email protected].
How to apply
Applications to this fund must be made through the Film Festival & Screening Programme Fund Application Form.
All applicants must ensure they have read the Fund Guidance and Application Form in full before applying. Both documents are available in the downloads section below.
You must apply for the BFI Diversity Standards first and provide proof of application. You don’t need to pass the standards before applying to the fund but passing is required to receive funding.
New applicants are strongly advised to speak to Screen Scotland’s Audience Development Team before applying. To request a meeting, contact the Enquiries Service by emailing [email protected].
Completed application forms should be submitted, along with all supporting materials to [email protected].