Northern Ireland Screen is now seeking feature film scripts to develop for its New Writer Focus scheme 2025-26.
The 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. Northern Ireland Screen 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.
The New Writer Focus seeks: 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, and Projects need not be limited by budget or genre.
The New Writer Focus will have 3 major components to the development scheme: Writers Room, with monthly meetings; Individual project and writer development; and Development seminars and networking opportunities.
Up to 4 scripts will be chosen for development between September 2025 and April 2026
To apply, applicants will need the following:
- 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
Those eligible must be:
- NI resident writers who 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
Writers can only make one project application. The selected writers will be eligible to apply for an individual writer award.
The closing date for receipt of applications is noon, Monday 30th June 2025.
Please note: Assessment will be completed and applicants will be notified by end of August 2025.
Click here to apply on the Northern Ireland Screen website.
