Open Call for Wicklow Short Film Award Scheme (Ireland)

Deadline: 05-Feb-2026

The Wicklow Short Film Award Scheme 2026 supports filmmakers from County Wicklow to produce high-quality, original short films. With up to €15,000 per project (two awards totaling €30,000), the scheme funds narrative, documentary, digital, and animation films that are ready for production and primarily shot in Wicklow, emphasizing equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Overview of the Scheme

The scheme aims to:

• Support local filmmakers in producing high-quality, original short films

• Encourage projects that reflect Screen Wicklow, Wicklow Arts Office, Wicklow County Council, and Arts Council values

• Promote career progression for filmmakers and creative teams within the screen industry

• Facilitate local production and post-production, with screening opportunities when possible

Funding Details

• Total fund for 2026: €30,000

• Grants per project: Up to €15,000 (maximum two awards)

• Film length: Generally 10–15 minutes; animation may be shorter

• Funding type: Production-focused; scripts must be fully developed and projects ready to start production within two months of funding

Eligible Applicants

• Must be native to County Wicklow or have resided there for three consecutive years

• Must apply through a registered limited company with full tax compliance and valid Tax Clearance Access Number

• Students (full- or part-time) are not eligible

• Individual applications accepted, but priority given to applicants with a core creative team (writer, director, producer)

• Teams reflecting diversity of cultures and backgrounds are encouraged

• Only one project per applicant; films must not already be partially or fully shot or require significant additional financing

Project Requirements

• Film must be primarily shot in County Wicklow; post-production locally encouraged

• Must align with core priorities of equality, diversity, and inclusion

• Applicants must demonstrate track record in filmmaking and commitment to high-quality, creative work

• All projects must complete filming, editing, and post-production by 30 September 2026

• Funders must be acknowledged in credits and promotional materials

• Insurance, legal, health and safety, and safeguarding compliance required before production

Additional Support for Selected Projects

• Access to co-working space via Clermont Screen Hub

• Practical assistance from Screen Wicklow for locations, permits, and production needs

• Screening opportunities for completed films where possible

Application Process

1. Stage One: Submit online application through Wicklow Arts Office platform, including:

   • Completed application form

   • Project synopsis and logline

   • Full script

   • Project plan and budget

   • Festival strategy

   • CVs and work samples

   • Creative notes and evidence of rights ownership

   • Supporting documentation for documentaries or animation projects

2. Stage Two: Shortlisted applicants invited to an in-person interview and pitch session (provisionally 26 March 2026)

3. Deadline: Thursday 5 February 2026 at 4 pm; late or incomplete applications not accepted

Why This Award Matters

• Supports local filmmakers to advance professionally in the screen industry

• Promotes creative, high-quality storytelling within County Wicklow

• Encourages diversity, inclusion, and innovation in filmmaking

• Provides practical production support and networking opportunities for creative teams

FAQ

1. Who is eligible? Native or long-term residents of County Wicklow, applying through a registered limited company.
2. What is the funding per project? Up to €15,000, with two projects funded in 2026.
3. What types of films are supported? Narrative, documentary, digital film, and animation.
4. Are students eligible? No, part-time and full-time students cannot apply.
5. Where must the film be shot? Primarily in County Wicklow, with local post-production encouraged.
6. Can partially shot films apply? No, projects must be ready to move into production.
7. What is the application deadline? 5 February 2026 at 4 pm via the online Wicklow Arts Office platform.

Conclusion

The Wicklow Short Film Award Scheme 2026 provides critical production support for local filmmakers, funding high-quality, original films that promote diversity, inclusion, and innovation. With financial assistance, professional guidance, and local production support, the program fosters creative excellence and career development in the County Wicklow screen sector.

For more information, visit Wicklow County Arts Office.