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March Opportunities for UK-based emerging filmmakers, crew and creatives
March 2026 | MFJF
British Independent Film Awards (BIFA)
Date: 4 March 2026
Eligibility: Open to film and screen industry professionals at all career stages
This 90-minute online session is designed to help professionals confidently recognise, prevent, and respond to bullying and harassment in the workplace. You’ll learn practical strategies for handling disclosures, understanding escalation and support options, and challenging inappropriate behaviour while demonstrating allyship.
The course operates on a pay-what-you-can model, making it accessible to anyone in the industry who may find it useful. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this session provides actionable insights for creating a safer, more supportive work environment.
My First Job in Film Academy
Date: Wednesday 4 March 2026, 7:00pm (Online)
Eligibility: Free for MFJF PRO Members - Use code NEWSLETTER for 50% off your first PRO subscription.
Learn the essential skills behind reading and writing professional book coverage for film and TV adaptation. This workshop covers the book-to-screen process, from understanding the life-cycle of a book to tips for reading efficiently and producing coverage that industry professionals rely on. Led by Alexandra Chaney, a former book scout with years of experience in the UK film industry, this session is perfect for those curious about the world of scouting or looking to improve their coverage skills.
Attendees will gain hands-on guidance, insights into breaking into the book-to-screen industry, and practical advice on writing coverage that can open doors to professional opportunities.
BBC Writers
Deadline: 10 March 2026 at 12 noon
Eligibility: Writers aged 18+ living full-time in the Bradford District; no prior credits required
Write Across Bradford is a free, eight-week development programme for emerging writers at the early stages of their careers. Running from July to September 2026, the programme offers weekly workshops, industry sessions and peer networking focused on developing an original TV drama or comedy-drama series idea, culminating in a one-page pitch. Delivered mostly online with some in-person sessions in Bradford, the scheme supports up to 12 writers and covers travel and access costs.
British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)
Deadline: 11 March 2026
Eligibility: Young people aged 16–21 based in the UK
Join a unique advisory group shaping how films and age-rated content are classified in the UK. Panel members get to view a range of content, provide feedback to BBFC compliance teams, and engage with industry professionals. The experience includes meetings with senior BBFC figures, participation in events, panel discussions, and film premieres.
If you choose, you can also represent the BBFC across social media and other public platforms. This opportunity is ideal for young people who want an insider view of how the film industry communicates, educates, and engages audiences.
My First Job in Film Academy
Dates: Monday 9 – Friday 13 March 2026, 7:00pm (Online)
Eligibility: Free for MFJF PRO Members - Use code NEWSLETTER for 50% off your first PRO subscription.
A week-long series of five workshops exploring career paths in costume for film and TV. Led by Julia Drummond-Haig, this series covers real-life experiences on set, practical skills, and how to get your first job in costume. Each evening focuses on a different theme: career journeys, on-set realities, professional skills, and entry into the industry.
Participants will gain actionable insight into the costume department workflow, collaboration with other departments, and navigating the pressures and opportunities of a career in film and television costume. Each session allows time for questions and discussion, giving attendees a grounded understanding of this creative field.
NEC Birmingham
Dates: 14-17 March 2026
Eligibility: Open to photographers, videographers, content creators and visual storytellers of all experience levels
The Photography & Video Show is the UK’s leading expo for anyone passionate about photography, video and visual storytelling, taking place over four days at the NEC in Birmingham. The event features hundreds of live talks, demos and educational sessions across imaging, lighting, shooting techniques and post‑production, with hands‑on access to the latest cameras, lenses, lighting and accessories from major brands like Canon, Sony, Nikon and Fujifilm. Whether you’re new to filmmaking or want to deepen your camera and production skills, this show offers inspiration, practical learning and a chance to connect with fellow visual creators.
Mentorship Tip: Consider booking a session with Richard Maxwell for expert guidance on camera, sound, and production workflow - dates available 9 & 23 March.
BFI NETWORK
Deadline: 18 March 2026, 11am
Eligibility: Early-career filmmakers based in England applying with original fiction short films up to 15 minutes
BFI NETWORK England Short Film Funding awards National Lottery grants of £5,000–£25,000 to support early-career filmmakers making original fiction shorts across live action, animation and immersive/VR. Projects should be scheduled to start production between November 2026 and October 2027. The fund prioritises bold storytelling, creative risk, equity and career progression, and offers successful teams both financial support and creative input from BFI NETWORK Talent Executives.
International Screenwriters’ Association (ISA)
Deadline: 19 March 2026
Eligibility: Writers from underrepresented or marginalized communities worldwide; open to feature films and TV pilots
The ISA Diversity Initiative supports writers with unique perspectives based on race, gender, sexuality, neurodiversity, disability, economic inequality, age, and other underrepresented voices. Selected writers may join the ISA Development Slate, gaining mentorship, industry exposure, and consideration for option agreements with Creative Cypher and Creative Screenwriter Productions. Benefits include career consultations, ISAConnect membership, script notes, and opportunities to connect with top Hollywood producers, managers, and executives.
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From the Heart Productions
Deadline: 31 March 2026
Eligibility: Filmmakers worldwide, any experience level
The Roy W. Dean Grant supports independent films that are unique and make a meaningful contribution to society, including documentaries, narrative features, shorts, web series, and multimedia projects. The winner receives a $3,500 cash award plus over $20,000 in services, equipment discounts, and free consultations to help bring the project to life. Projects can be at any stage of production, and all lengths and formats are welcome.
New for 2026: The Stories That Matter Awards will honour three additional projects with $500 each, recognising films that meaningfully reflect real lives, communities, and social issues.
Aesthetica Film Festival & Audible
Deadline: 20 April 2026
Eligibility: Filmmakers from anywhere in the world can apply, with first-time and underrepresented creators especially encouraged.
Two grants of up to £10,000 are available for new documentary projects exploring this year’s theme, Radical Listening - examining sound, attention, and presence in storytelling. Winning films will premiere at Aesthetica 2026 and be shared via Audible and Aesthetica platforms.
My First Job in Film
MFJF PRO Members can book 1:1 mentoring sessions with industry professionals covering areas such as directing, producing, costume, camera, sound, and scripted production. Our mentors don’t just give advice - they provide real, personalised guidance, helping you navigate challenges, build confidence, and make informed decisions about your career. You can book sessions as often as you need, whenever you have questions or want feedback on your next steps.
Some of our March mentors include:
Plus many more mentors covering a wide range of disciplines and experience levels!
This is your chance to get hands-on support from professionals who know the industry, and guidance tailored specifically to your goals and projects. Book now before slots are all claimed.
Access all workshops, mentoring, and exclusive content. Use code NEWSLETTER for 50% off your first subscription!
Would you like to share your set stories, write reviews or blog about your journey into the industry? MFJF would love to hear from you!
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