Northern Ireland Screen is now seeking feature film scripts to develop for its New Writer Focus scheme 2025-26.
New Writer Focus is Northern Ireland Screen’s flagship script development scheme, dedicated to discovering and nurturing emerging screenwriting talent.
Since its launch in 2015, the programme has issued an annual call for scripts, helping to bring bold new voices to the screen. Notable successes include Land of Saints and Sinners by Mark McNally, and The Last Rifleman by Kevin Fitzpatrick starring Pierce Brosnan.
The scheme is only open to Northern Ireland resident writers new to feature film. We are not taking applications for TV drama or comedy, this is for feature film scripts only.
For the avoidance of doubt “writers new to feature film” in this context means a writer without a writing credit on a produced feature film.
This is a script development call, therefore a producer and director are not essential at this stage.
What are they looking for?
- Compelling stories with a unique or fresh perspective.
- Ambitious authored voices.
- Stories with strong character journeys.
- A range of art-house and commercial stories.
- Feature film projects only.
- Projects need not be limited by budget or genre.
What will the scheme involve?
New Writer Focus will have 3 major components to the development scheme:
- Writers Room, with monthly meetings.
- Individual project and writer development.
- Development seminars and networking opportunities.
How many projects will be selected?
Up to 4 scripts will be chosen for development between September 2025 – April 2026.
What do you need to submit to apply?
- At least a first draft completed script of the project you wish to develop through the scheme.
- A one-page synopsis of your story.
- Name, project title, and contact information on your script and one-pager.
- Projects saved by project title and writer name.
Who can apply?
- NI resident writers who not have not yet had a produced feature film.
- Writing teams of up to 2 writers can submit a joint application.
- Writers who have not already completed NWF.
Explore FAQs, formatting guidelines, useful resources, and recommended tools to assist with your application here.
The application link can be found here.
Deadline: 30 June 2025
Source: BBC Writers