Coming soon - First Features

Short Circuit’s First Features scheme will enable the brightest Scotland-based filmmakers to take that career-defining step towards making their debut feature.

The scheme will be for writing, writing/directing and producing talent from all across Scotland who have bold and compelling fiction projects with theatrical ambition and the potential to resonate with audiences globally.

The scheme will support projects from initial idea to fully polished draft. Awards will be made in two stages, distinguished between early development (treatment to first draft) and further development (second draft and beyond). You will be able to apply via an online application form for support at either level.

Please note that First Features is able to support only a small number of projects at each stage, and support at one level will not guarantee support at the next. Around five projects per year will be funded at the early development stage, and a smaller number of projects are likely to be supported for further development.

All applicants must have a strong track record in short films or other narrative-based medium, and industry recognition for previous work. After reading the application guidelines, we encourage you to get in touch with the Short Circuit Team if you would like to discuss your application and need support in order to apply.

Successful applicants can expect to receive financial support towards their project along with creative/editorial support from the Short Circuit Talent Executives and the Screen Scotland team.

The fund will open for applications in mid-September, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Full guidelines will be published, and there will be an opportunity to take part in an online Q&A with the Talent Executives.

Keep an eye on the Short Circuit website, follow Short Circuit on social media, and subscribe to the Short Circuit newsletter to stay informed of the launch of First Features.

More about Short Circuit

Short Circuit is delivered by Film City Futures in partnership with Glasgow Film, and funded by Screen Scotland and BFI NETWORK, running initially until the end of March 2022. Learn more about Short Circuit.