BFI NETWORK Early Development Fund 2025 is open

BFI NETWORK Early Development Fund is now open for applications. The deadline for applications is Tuesday, 18 November 2025, at 11 AM.

This annual fund supports writers at the very beginning of their development process for their debut feature. Awards of between £3000-£5000 will support writers in the Midlands in producing an initial treatment (a piece of writing that outlines the themes and structure of a film) and related materials (for example, a mood board), while also providing creative support throughout.

The funding opportunity is open to writers with a strong creative track record, who have not yet received a commercial distribution deal for a feature. While you can apply with a producer, they are not required for your application.

Find Out More and Apply

Application Support

To help support you with completing your applications in the Midlands, we will be running events and information sessions right up until the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have gathered our frequently asked questions and answers into one, so this is a great first stop if you are new here and want more information.

Information Sessions

Fridays 17th, 24th, 31st October and 14th November I 12.30-1.15pm

Join us online to hear more about the fund and have the opportunity to ask questions to help strengthen your application.

Book Here

Meet the Alumni

Tuesday 21st October I 6.30-7.30pm I Online

Meet some of previous recipients of the fund, learn more about their experience of working on their treatments and get to ask questions about their application and project.

Book Here

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Application Walkthrough

Tuesday 28th October I 6.30-8pm I Online

We'll be sharing our screens and walking you through the application form. We will be able to answer any questions you have as well as give insight into the assessment process.

Book Here

How to Tell Your Story Concisely

Monday 3rd November I 6.30-8pm I Online

We will be joined by Laura Jayne Tunbridge, who will be sharing tips and tricks on how best to express your ideas and tell your story in the limited application space.

Book Here

Talent Executive 121 Meetings

You can also book a 30 minute zoom call with one of our Midlands talent executives to ask any questions and talk through your application.

Please note, we cannot give creative feedback on your project.

Book a Call