Deadline: 31-Dec-2025

The Dutch Film Fund provides financial support for script development of majority Dutch feature films and long animated films that have passed the Pitch Filmidee stage. The scheme helps screenwriters, directors, and producers refine their screenplay to an advanced level, ensuring strong narrative foundations and creative team alignment. Funding is available for both production companies and individual screenwriters, with contributions up to €35,000.

Overview

The Dutch Film Fund offers targeted financial support for developing feature film and long animation scripts intended for Dutch cinema release. Following a successful Pitch Filmidee, applicants can secure funding to advance their screenplay to a mature, production-ready stage.

Purpose of the Scheme

This funding programme aims to:

• Strengthen the film idea into a fully developed screenplay

• Establish core elements such as theme, narrative structure, internal logic, and character development

• Prepare the creative team for the final development phase

• Support collaboration between producer, director, and screenwriter

• Encourage high-quality Dutch cinema and animation

Key Focus Areas

The Fund evaluates projects based on:

• The readiness of the project for in-depth script development

• The strength and cohesion of the creative team

• Quality of the underlying idea, project structure, and artistic consistency

• Feasibility of delivering a polished screenplay

Funding Details

For Production Companies

A production company may request support covering:

1. Screenwriter Costs

• Up to €35,000 for the screenwriter

• Up to €10,500 surcharge for:

  • Multiple screenwriters

  • A director involved in co-writing

2. Script Coaching or Expertise

• Up to €2,500 for a script coach or expert advisor

• Requires clear justification in the work plan

3. Directing Work

• Up to €5,000 for directing input during script development

4. Long Animation Projects

• Up to €10,000 for:

  • Concept art

  • Character development

  • Beat boards/storyboards

5. Producer Fee and Overheads

• Producers may request up to 15% fee and overhead across eligible development costs

For Individual Screenwriters

Independent screenwriters may receive:

• Up to €35,000 for scriptwriting

• Up to €2,500 for a script coach or expert advisor

Who Is Eligible?

Production Companies

Applicants must be:

• Independent film production companies

• Established for at least two years

• Based in:

  • The Netherlands

  • EU/EEA member states

  • Switzerland

• Continuously producing films or audiovisual works

• Represented by a producer with:

  • At least one independent, non-commissioned film (70+ minutes)

  • Released professionally in the Dutch film or TV sector

Note: The producer cannot also serve as the film’s director or screenwriter.

Screenwriters

Eligible screenwriters are those who:

• Are independent

• Have been primarily responsible for a feature film or long animated film (70+ minutes)

• Which was released in Dutch cinemas

How the Scheme Works: Step-by-Step

1. Complete Pitch Filmidee

   • Only applicants with a positive evaluation may proceed to this scheme.

2. Prepare Application Materials

   • Film idea overview

   • Development plan

   • Creative team details

   • Budget and justification for each cost

3. Submit Application

   • Through the Dutch Film Fund’s official platform

   • Ensure compliance with eligibility and budget limits

4. Evaluation by the Fund

   • Assessing creative quality, feasibility, and team capability

5. Grant Award and Contracting

   • Approved applicants receive a development contract

   • Funds must be spent according to the approved plan

6. Script Development Phase

   • Collaboration between writer, director, producer

   • Optional coaching or expert guidance

7. Submission of Deliverables

   • Advanced-stage screenplay

   • Financial reporting

   • Any required updates or supplementary materials

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Producers acting as both producer and director/screenwriter

• Lack of a clear work plan for development

• Requesting unsubstantiated costs (especially coaching or expert fees)

• Submitting projects without a fully defined creative team

• Underdeveloped narrative structure or weak character arcs

Why This Funding Matters

This scheme strengthens the Dutch film ecosystem by:

• Improving the quality of national cinema

• Supporting creative collaboration

• Enabling deeper, more polished storytelling

• Encouraging animation and feature film innovation

• Providing financial security during early development

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to pass Pitch Filmidee before applying?

Yes. Only projects with a positive evaluation from Pitch Filmidee are eligible.

2. Can a producer also be the director or screenwriter?

No. Producers must hold an independent role separate from writing or directing.

3. What is the maximum a screenwriter can receive?

Up to €35,000.

4. Are script coaching services mandatory?

No, but they can be funded if clearly justified.

5. Is support available for animation?

Yes. Long animated films may request up to €10,000 for concept art, character development, and beat boards.

6. Can individual screenwriters apply directly?

Yes, if they have previously authored a feature or long animation over 70 minutes released in Dutch cinemas.

7. Is the producer fee mandatory?

No. It is optional and capped at 15% of eligible development costs.

Conclusion

The Dutch Film Fund’s script development contributions offer essential support for developing strong, production-ready feature film and animation screenplays. With substantial funding opportunities and clear eligibility criteria, this scheme empowers creators to refine their narrative vision and strengthen Dutch cinema’s artistic quality.

For more information, visit Dutch Film Fund.