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BIFA’s yearly programme designed to support writers, directors and producers to continue and develop their careers is once again open for applications.
Springboard was designed in response to a direct need to support filmmakers beyond early success after it was found over 70% of filmmakers entering BIFA in 2018/19/20 had not completed a second feature two years later, including longlisted and nominated filmmakers. Those who won our debut awards were more likely to have made a second feature.
The 22/23 programme is primarily supported by Film4 with additional support from ScreenSkills as part of the BFI Future Film Skills programme using funds from the National Lottery. The programme offers a combination of sessions from experienced industry bodies and filmmakers, a support network of similarly experienced writers, directors and producers, mentoring and networking initiatives aiming to make connections to develop your career.
‘I have found the BIFA Springboard programme an absolute revelation. Not only does it organise incredibly useful courses, talks and discussions, but it also provides something that is seriously missing for filmmakers – solidarity, support and a safe and supportive space to problem solve.’
Verity Wislocki, Wislocki Films
Sessions in previous years have come from Warp Films, Wellington Films, RSM, Wiggin, Creativity Media, Film & TV Charity, Reel Abilities and more, and covered topics including financing, sales, distribution, legals, company development and career progression and run alongside networking and skill sharing events.
Criteria
To continue to offer the programme more widely this year, we are opening up Springboard to writers, directors and producers outside of the award longlists. This is not an entry level initiative however so applicants need to have made one feature film that has played at BIFA recognised film festivals or online channels.
Whilst this programme is open to all, we are particularly keen to receive applications from filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds and those outside of London and the South East.
BIFA believe that diversity in the the film industry is paramount to its future success, and through our programmes we should be supporting and developing talent who reflect the full diversity of the UK today. Under-represented groups in the film industry include people from minority ethnic backgrounds, deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent people, women, non-binary people, LGBTQ+ people and people from lower socio-economic backgrounds plus those based outside London and the South-East.
Apply here
Applications for BIFA’s Springboard programme are now closed.
If you have any questions or access requirements in order to fill out this form please contact hello@bifa.film
BIFA are able to cover access costs required for participants to get the most from the programme including digital access costs and childcare if required.
