The National Talent Academy for Film & Television Drama (NTAFT) and National Talent Academy for Animation (NTAA) alongside Screen Ireland have opened applications are for two short film funding initiatives for both live-action and animation projects, which will run from Mid 2025 to January 2026.

The National Talent Academies Short Film Fund?

If you are already working in the live action or animation industry, this initiative from the NTA Film & TV Drama and NTA Animation aims to support you to transfer, upskill and/or make a career move from your current area of expertise.

The National Talent Academies Short Film Fund is targeted at practitioners who wish to learn additional skills or move into a different role. It is underpinned by a €15,000 fund that will provide the filmmaking team with carefully tailored mentoring, training, and workshops delivered by experienced industry professionals over the course of a year. This scheme is heavily focused on skills development and supporting you in expanding your skillset, enabling you to take on the new role.

Applicants must apply as a team made up of two or more members, which must contain a Director seeking to transfer/upskill or move into a writing/directing or directing role for the first time.

The National Talent Academies First Credit Short Film Scheme?

If you are a Writer, Director, or Producer yet to make your mark in the live-action or animation industry, this initiative from the NTA Film & TV Drama and NTA Animation aims to support you in creating a short film and gaining your first professional credit as a Writer, Director, or Producer.

The First Credit Short Film Scheme is targeted at new filmmakers, with the backing of a €8,000 fund that will provide the filmmaking team with carefully tailored mentoring, training, and workshops delivered by experienced industry professionals over the course of a year.  Not only will this scheme help you get a short film made, it is heavily focused on skills development and supporting you in kickstarting and establishing a career in film and TV. 

The closing date for these schemes is March 14th 2025.

Full details & schedules for information sessions for animation here and for live-action here.