How to fund a short film in the UK
The realistic options for paying for a short film, including public funds, crowdfunding, schemes for new filmmakers, in-kind support and your own money, and how to apply for each.
Most first short films are paid for by the people who make them, with favours from friends and a little crowdfunding. Public funding exists, and it is worth applying for, but it is competitive. A realistic plan combines several sources.
1. Public funds for new filmmakers
Each nation of the UK has public support for short films and emerging talent:
- England: BFI NETWORK. The BFI’s talent development strand works through regional teams around England. It supports short films and new filmmakers through funding, development and events.
- Scotland: Screen Scotland, often in partnership with other organisations on short film schemes.
- Wales: Ffilm Cymru Wales, which supports new talent and short film.
- Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Screen, which runs schemes for new filmmakers.
Schemes, deadlines and amounts change regularly, so check each funder’s current calls. What applications generally need:
- a strong script, ideally redrafted many times (see how to write a short film script);
- a clear statement of why you, why this story and why now;
- previous work: even a no-budget short shows you can finish a film;
- a realistic budget and schedule;
- a producer, which most schemes expect or strongly favour.
2. Crowdfunding
Kickstarter and Indiegogo are the main platforms. Crowdfunding works best for budgets in the low thousands, with:
- a short, honest pitch video showing the people making the film;
- a clear goal that covers the real costs, including platform fees and rewards;
- sensible rewards: digital copies, credits, screening tickets. Avoid physical items that cost a lot to post;
- a launch plan. Most money comes from your own network in the first and last days.
Small film organisations crowdfund too. The Greenhorn festival itself raised part of its 2013 budget through Kickstarter.
3. In-kind support
Much of what a short film needs can be borrowed rather than bought: locations, equipment, props, costumes, a van, food. Ask local businesses, film schools, theatres and community groups. Offer credits, thanks and a screening in return.
4. Competitions and commissions
Some festivals, broadcasters, brands and arts organisations run short film competitions or commissions with production budgets. They usually set a theme or brief. They can be a good route if the brief suits you, but read the rights terms carefully: some keep more rights than you might want to give away.
5. Your own money
Most first shorts are self-funded, at least in part. If you put in your own money:
- set a firm limit before you start and stick to it;
- spend it where it shows: sound, food, post-production and festival fees (see making a short on a low budget);
- think of it as training, not an investment. Short films rarely make money back. What they can do is open doors.
Keep records
Whatever the source, keep receipts and a clear budget. Funders expect them. If the film is selected for festivals, you will also need clear documentation of who owns what.
Questions people ask
Can I get public funding for my first short film?
Yes. In England, BFI NETWORK supports new and emerging filmmakers through regional talent teams. Screen Scotland, Ffilm Cymru Wales and Northern Ireland Screen run their own schemes. They are competitive, and most expect some previous work, even a very small film.
Is crowdfunding a good way to fund a short film?
It can be, for budgets in the low thousands. Success depends mostly on your own network. Most backers of a first short are people who already know you, or know someone on the team.