For immediate release
Friday 5th December, 2025
WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL ANNOUNCES OPEN CALL FOR THE WICKLOW SHORT FILM AWARD SCHEME IN 2026
Following the success of the initiative in 2024 and 2025, Screen Wicklow and Wicklow Arts Office are excited to announce the launch of the Wicklow Short Film Award for 2026.
Online applications for the award will be open from Monday, 8th December 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 2026, 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 2026 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 Thursday 5th February, 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 Melanie Corrigan stated, “This award demonstrates that Wicklow continues to support local filmmakers in their career development. It is a valuable stepping stone to future success for our homegrown talent”.
Emer O’Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, remarked “The screen industry is a key sector of the Wicklow economy. This award shows the Council’s ongoing commitment to fostering the growth of the industry at a local level and complements the employment opportunities provided by the major international productions that we continue to attract.”
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, permits, and will seek to facilitate screening opportunities for the two funded films through 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 26th March 2026. Specific dates and times will be communicated once applicants are shortlisted.
SCREEN WICKLOW INFORMATION:
John Powderly, Screen Officer, Wicklow County Council
E: screenwicklow@wicklowcoco.ie