Screen Ireland has announced that applications are now open for the latest round of Spotlight – Screen Ireland’s flagship screenwriting talent scheme aimed at discovering and developing fresh and exciting new voices. The 2025 round of Spotlight is aimed at screenwriters who would like to develop a TV series based on the theme ‘Irish Myths and Legends’. From Tír na n-Óg to Cú Chulainn – and beyond – Screen Ireland is looking for original, inventive story ideas based on myths and legends from Irish culture.

Up to 10 projects will be chosen for the scheme, taking an initial 1-2 page pitch at application stage and developing the idea into a detailed bible and pilot screenplay over the course of the programme. The successful screenwriters will be awarded funding of up to €15,000 for individuals and up to €18,000 for teams of two or more writers. Each writer/writing team will be paired with a script editor, paid for by Screen Ireland, and a mentor for the duration. A series of virtual webinars and masterclasses will be held throughout, with topics ranging from the development process to screenwriting for TV, alongside a number of practical case studies. The programme will culminate in an alumni networking event, with professionals from the Irish screen industry and past participants of the Spotlight scheme in attendance.

The deadline for submissions for this round is 15th August 2025.

Full details here.