Following the success of the inaugural year in 2024, Screen Wicklow and Wicklow Arts Office are excited to announce the launch of the Wicklow Short Film Award for 2025. 

Online applications for the award will be open from Thursday, 16^th January 2025 via https://wicklowcountycouncil.submittable.com/submit

The purpose of the award is to support filmmakers from Wicklow in creating high-quality, original films in the county.  Eligible projects include narrative films, documentaries, digital films and animations.  The Wicklow Short Film Award is funded by Wicklow County Council and The Arts Council, with support from Clermont Screen Hub.

For 2025, there will be a maximum of two grants of up to €15,000 each for the production of a short film or documentary. Films should be approximately 10 to 15 minutes in duration, although animation projects may be shorter. The total fund therefore available for award in 2025 is €30,000.

For any questions about the Wicklow Short Film Award, please reach out to filmaward@wicklowcoco.ie  A FAQ document will also be published online.  The closing date for applications is Friday 7^th April, at 4pm.

Please note that this is a film production award, and scripts must be fully developed before applying.  The funding cannot be used to develop scripts or ideas; films must be ready to go into production within two months of receiving funding. Additionally, all films must be shot in County Wicklow.

We are looking for applicants with a track record in filmmaking, who can demonstrate involvement in high-quality, creative and original projects. While individual applicants are welcome, priority will be given to those who have already assembled a core creative team, including a writer, director and producer.

Wicklow County Council has a strong history of supporting the development of the film industry in the county and is proud to be host to a growing commercial film sector.  Our intention is that these two awards will significantly impact the careers of the selected filmmakers.

Cathaoirleach Paul O’Brien stated; ‘I am delighted that Wicklow continues to support grassroots filmmaking in the county.  This award continues to provide an important stepping stone to future success for our talented local filmmakers.

Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, remarked; ‘Film is an integral part of both the economy and the culture of County Wicklow.  The continuation of this award demonstrates the Council’s ongoing commitment to the industry at a local level alongside the employment opportunities provided by the major international productions.’

Please keep in mind that successful applicants must have a registered production company to access the funding, and appropriate insurance must be in place before filming begins. In collaboration with Clermont Screen Hub, successful applicants will also receive additional support, including access to co-working space, if required. Screen Wicklow will assist grant recipients with locations, and permits, and will seek to facilitate screening opportunities for the two funded films through the Wicklow Arts Office.

The primary applicant must be native to County Wicklow or have resided in the county for the past three consecutive years.

Shortlisted applicants must be available for an interview or pitching session circa 15^th and 16^th May 2025. Specific dates and times will be communicated once applicants are shortlisted.