Deadline: 31-Dec-2026
Applications are open for the Script Development Scheme for Feature Films and Long Animated Films, a funding program that supports the development of Dutch majority feature films and long animated films intended for theatrical release. The scheme helps creative teams transform a well-developed film concept into a comprehensive screenplay by strengthening narrative structure, character development, artistic vision, and overall screenplay quality before the production phase.
The program focuses on projects that have progressed beyond the initial idea stage and require in-depth script development to reach an advanced screenplay stage suitable for cinema-oriented production and further creative exploration.
Overview
The Script Development Scheme supports the development of feature-length films and animated feature films that are intended for theatrical release.
The funding is designed to help creative teams refine and deepen their projects by focusing on screenplay quality, narrative coherence, character development, thematic depth, and artistic direction.
The scheme serves as a bridge between the initial concept stage and production development, ensuring that projects have a strong creative and structural foundation before moving forward.
Program Objectives
The scheme aims to:
- Develop Dutch majority feature films and long animated films
- Strengthen screenplay quality and artistic vision
- Refine narrative structure and story development
- Improve character development and internal consistency
- Support collaboration between producers, directors, and screenwriters
- Prepare projects for production-oriented development
- Enhance the quality of cinema-focused storytelling
- Support innovative and culturally significant audiovisual works
The program focuses on strengthening projects at a critical stage of the creative process.
What the Scheme Supports
Funding is intended for screenplay development activities that help transform an established concept into a fully developed script.
Supported activities may include:
- Screenplay writing and rewriting
- Narrative refinement
- Character development
- Story structure development
- Thematic exploration
- Dialogue development
- Script consultations
- Creative team collaboration
- Expert feedback and script coaching
- Animation concept development
- Storyboarding and visual planning
Projects should demonstrate a clear need for further script development and artistic refinement.
Eligible Projects
The scheme supports:
- Dutch majority feature films
- Dutch majority long animated films
- Projects intended for theatrical release
- Projects that have progressed beyond the initial concept stage
- Projects requiring advanced screenplay development
Applicants should demonstrate that the project’s core narrative, structure, and characters have already been established and are ready for further development.
Development Focus Areas
Funding supports the strengthening of key screenplay elements.
Narrative Structure
Projects may focus on:
- Story architecture
- Plot development
- Dramatic progression
- Pacing and flow
- Scene construction
A strong narrative structure helps create a compelling and engaging cinematic experience.
Character Development
Applicants may use funding to deepen:
- Main character arcs
- Character motivations
- Relationships between characters
- Emotional development
- Character consistency
Well-developed characters contribute to stronger storytelling and audience engagement.
Themes and Artistic Vision
The scheme encourages:
- Exploration of central themes
- Creative refinement
- Artistic coherence
- Storyworld development
- Narrative depth
Projects should demonstrate a clear creative vision and thematic purpose.
Internal Consistency
Funding may support work that strengthens:
- Story logic
- Narrative continuity
- Character consistency
- World-building
- Overall screenplay coherence
These elements are essential for producing a professional-quality screenplay.
Funding Available for Production Company Applications
When an eligible production company submits the application, funding may include several components.
Screenwriter Contribution
- Up to €35,000 for screenwriting work
This support covers screenplay development and script refinement activities.
Additional Screenwriting Surcharges
Additional funding of up to €10,500 may be available for:
- Multiple screenwriters
- Co-writing directors
The additional support must be justified within the development plan.
Script Coach or Expert Advisor
- Up to €2,500
Funding may be used for:
- Script consultants
- Dramaturgs
- Expert advisors
- Screenplay coaches
The involvement of advisors should be clearly described in the work plan.
Director Development Support
- Up to €5,000
This funding supports directing-related development work connected to screenplay refinement and creative preparation.
Animation Development Support
For feature-length animation projects, up to €10,000 may be allocated for:
- Concept art
- Character design
- Character development
- Beat boards
- Storyboards
- Visual development activities
These elements help strengthen the visual storytelling approach of animated projects.
Producer Fee and Overhead
- Up to 15% of total eligible development costs
This may cover:
- Producer management activities
- Administrative costs
- Project coordination
- Organizational overhead
Funding Available for Independent Screenwriters
Independent screenwriters may also be eligible to apply directly.
Available support includes:
Screenwriting Contribution
- Up to €35,000
Funding supports screenplay development and writing activities.
Script Coach or Expert Advisor
- Up to €2,500
Support may be provided for expert consultation and script development assistance when justified within the work plan.
Who Can Apply?
The scheme supports applications from:
- Eligible production companies
- Eligible independent screenwriters
Applications should involve a strong creative vision and a clear plan for screenplay development.
Creative Team Requirements
Projects are intended to be developed through collaboration between:
- Producer
- Director
- Screenwriter
The program emphasizes the importance of creative collaboration during screenplay development.
Eligibility for Production Companies
Production companies must:
- Be established in:
- The Kingdom of the Netherlands
- A European Union member state
- A European Economic Area (EEA) country
- Switzerland
- Have operated continuously for at least two years
- Be actively engaged in producing and exploiting audiovisual works
Applicants should demonstrate professional experience in film production and development.
Producer Eligibility Requirements
The producer representing the company must:
- Have served as majority producer on at least one independent feature film or feature-length animated film
- Have worked on a film released in Dutch cinemas
- Possess relevant professional production experience
This requirement ensures that funded projects are guided by experienced producers.
Producer Independence Requirement
To maintain professional creative collaboration:
- The producer must be different from the director.
- The producer must be different from the screenwriter.
Separate professional roles are required for company-based applications.
Eligibility for Independent Screenwriters
Independent screenwriters may apply if they have:
- Been primarily responsible for the screenplay of at least one feature film or feature-length animated film
- Worked on a film that received a theatrical release in Dutch cinemas
Applicants should demonstrate proven professional screenwriting experience.
Connection to Pitch Filmidee
Applications may be submitted following:
- A positive outcome at Pitch Filmidee
This pathway allows projects that have successfully advanced through the idea stage to continue developing toward production readiness.
Assessment Considerations
Applications are generally evaluated based on:
- Quality of the project concept
- Strength of the screenplay development plan
- Artistic vision
- Narrative potential
- Character development
- Experience of the creative team
- Feasibility of the proposed work plan
- Potential for theatrical release
- Contribution to Dutch cinema and animation
Projects should demonstrate both creative ambition and practical development planning.
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure that:
- The project is a Dutch majority feature film or long animated film.
- The project is intended for theatrical release.
- The applicant meets all eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Assemble the Creative Team
Establish collaboration between:
- Producer
- Director
- Screenwriter
Additional advisors or consultants may also be included where appropriate.
Step 3: Develop a Work Plan
Prepare a detailed plan outlining:
- Script development objectives
- Creative challenges to be addressed
- Development activities
- Timeline and milestones
- Expert involvement
Step 4: Prepare the Budget
Include:
- Screenwriting costs
- Advisor fees
- Director development activities
- Animation development expenses (if applicable)
- Producer fees and overhead
The budget should align closely with proposed development activities.
Step 5: Submit the Application
Provide all required documentation and supporting materials according to program requirements.
Tips for Applicants
- Clearly explain the current stage of script development.
- Demonstrate a strong artistic vision.
- Show how funding will strengthen the screenplay.
- Present a realistic and detailed work plan.
- Explain the role of advisors or script coaches.
- Highlight the experience of the creative team.
- Ensure the project is clearly intended for theatrical release.
- Provide a budget that directly supports development activities.
Why This Scheme Matters
Strong screenplays form the foundation of successful films. The transition from an initial concept to a fully developed screenplay often requires extensive refinement, collaboration, and creative exploration. Without sufficient development resources, promising projects may struggle to realize their full artistic potential.
The Script Development Scheme helps filmmakers invest time and expertise into strengthening stories, characters, themes, and narrative structures before production begins. By supporting creative development at this critical stage, the program contributes to the creation of high-quality Dutch feature films and animated films capable of reaching audiences through theatrical release.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What types of projects are eligible?
- Dutch majority feature films and long animated films intended for theatrical release.
- How much support is available for screenwriters?
- Up to €35,000 for screenplay development activities.
- Can additional screenwriters receive support?
- Yes. Additional funding of up to €10,500 may be available for multiple screenwriters or co-writing directors.
- Is support available for script coaches?
- Yes. Up to €2,500 may be provided for a script coach or expert advisor.
- Are animation-specific development costs eligible?
- Yes. Animated projects may receive up to €10,000 for concept art, character development, beat boards, and storyboards.
- Can an independent screenwriter apply directly?
- Yes, provided they meet the required professional experience criteria.
- Can the producer also serve as the director or screenwriter?
- No. For production company applications, the producer must be separate from both the director and the screenwriter.
Conclusion
The Script Development Scheme for Feature Films and Long Animated Films provides essential support for transforming established film concepts into advanced screenplays ready for cinema-oriented production. By funding script development, expert guidance, creative collaboration, animation design work, and artistic refinement, the scheme helps strengthen the quality of Dutch feature films and animated productions before they move into the production phase. Through its focus on narrative excellence, creative teamwork, and theatrical storytelling, the program plays an important role in supporting the future of Dutch cinema.
For more information, visit Nederlands Filmfonds.
