← All opportunities

The Whickers Film and TV Funding Award

Film Grant
Paid First Timers Welcome

About this opportunity

The Whickers Film and TV Funding Award is one of the most significant documentary funding awards in the world. Named after broadcaster Alan Whicker, it offers a main award of GBP 120,000 and a runner-up development award of GBP 25,000, making it a transformative opportunity for emerging documentary filmmakers making their feature directorial debut.

Application tips

The 2026 application deadline was 30 January 2026 (now closed). Shortlist announced late April 2026, finalist pitches at Sheffield DocFest in June 2026. Your project should demonstrate a strong personal connection to the subject and a clear vision for how the funding would be used. Applications open November annually.

Related opportunities

37 days left

British Film Institute

Film Grant
Paid First Timers Welcome

Opens: February · Closes: April

BFI NETWORK England provides production funding for original fiction short films (live action, animation, or immersive/VR) of up to 15 minutes from early career filmmakers. Grants range from GBP 5,000 to GBP 25,000. The fund receives approximately 1,000 applications per round with around 30 projects funded.

Rolling

British Film Institute

Film Grant
Paid Rolling First Timers Welcome

The BFI Network Short Film Fund supports new and emerging filmmakers across the UK with funding to produce distinctive short films. It prioritises bold, original voices and stories that reflect the diversity of contemporary Britain, with a particular focus on talent from underrepresented backgrounds.

Rolling

British Council

Film Grant
Paid Travel Covered Rolling First Timers Welcome

The British Council Short Film Festival Travel Grant supports emerging UK filmmakers attending international festivals where their short films have been selected. Grants cover travel expenses ranging from GBP 100 to GBP 1,500, enabling filmmakers to network and promote their work on the international circuit.