Over the course of six months, five producers and five directors will work with a BFI NETWORK South West Talent Executive to create a bespoke professional development plan, focusing on current challenges or skills gaps. Participants will then be matched with an established mentor.    

Those applying to Shorts2Features will also benefit from training modules, free tickets, development bursaries, one-to-ones, networking opportunities and, in some cases, the chance to apply for shadowing opportunities on a South West incoming feature or HETV drama production. 

BFI NETWORK recognised the challenges in the leap between short and long-form projects for many of the filmmakers that received funding from us, particularly for those based in regions where connection to the industry is limited. Working in collaboration with our partners, BFI NETWORK’s aim with Shorts2Features is to help close that gap and create clear progression routes for those struggling to get a more substantial project into development, to secure agent representation or build credits and confidence.  

Shorts2Features will launch in Bristol at Encounters Film Festival, and throughout the festival (27 Sep – 2 Oct 2022) we’ll also be running a few public-facing events, including sessions on finding representation, setting up a production company and navigating film markets.   

The deadline for applications is 12 noon Fri 2 September. 

Read more about Shorts2Features and make your application on our website 

• Follow us on twitter at @NETWORKFHSW  
• Like us on Instagram at @FilmHubSW 
• Visit our Facebook page