12/02/2026
Calling all local filmmakers, Creative Heartlands have a great funding package to help make your next short film.
CREATIVE HEARTLANDS FILM BURSARY OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS NOW
Closing date for applications: Midnight, Monday 23rd March
The Creative Heartlands Film Bursary is an annual award by Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon Arts Office and Creative Ireland Programmes. The award is open to both established and emerging
filmmakers and production companies, living/working in the SLR region, and designed to support collaboration among filmmaking teams in the development of an original Short Film (to be delivered
in HD 1080p.)
The 2026 Creative Heartlands (SLR) Short Film Bursary Scheme is now open and will run for six weeks, closing on 23rd March (midnight).
The earlier timeline for this year's scheme is designed to allow a stronger pre-production window, enabling filming in early summer and project completion by August.
Note: The “adaptation” requirement has been removed from the criteria.
Eligibility:
Each application must be led by a professional* practicing film artist/producer/director based in either Sligo, Leitrim or Roscommon.
* Although you might not earn income continuously or exclusively from your arts practice, applicants must identify themselves and be recognised by their peers as professional practicing artists.
Notes:
The scheme is open to short films - drama, animation, documentary and more and should be no longer than 12mins (we can be flexible with the running time on a documentary).
One project will be awarded per participating county.
Team applications (writers, directors, producers) are encouraged as will be the inclusion of
regionally based Heads of Department and Crew.
The films shall be completed and delivered in time for inclusion in the Strandhill Film and Folk (August), Adaptation (September) and Roscommon/RIFF (October) Festivals.
Assessment Criteria:
Track record of those involved in the project (20%)
Likely benefit to artists involved in the project that live/work in the region. (20%)
Artistic quality of the proposal (film proposal and original work) (20%)
Evidence of collaboration and distinct roles among the film team. (20%)
Feasibility (20%)
Funding & Support:
€6,000 bursary per project. €5,000 paid on grant approval and €1,000 paid on receipt of completed
film.
In-kind mentoring and equipment support from Creative Heartlands
The Creative Heartlands Film Bursary is an annual award by Sligo Arts Service, Leitrim Arts Office Service (with their Creative Ireland programme) and Roscommon Arts Roscommon Arts Service (also with their Creative Ireland programme).
For any clarification, please contact [email protected]
Application Form https://forms.leitrimcoco.ie/form-88812/creative-heartlands-film-bursary-2026
