Take Three is an exciting new opportunity for short filmmakers in Scotland as part of the new Screen Scotland Talent Builder initiative. Talent Builder will offer a clear and comprehensive pathway from early-stage through to the completion of a first feature film script. The initiative will focus on identifying and cultivating new and emerging voices in Scottish cinema, helping them develop the skills, connections and confidence needed to thrive in the industry.
Take Three comprises three new programmes of national support for short form storytelling. Continuing the legacy of world class short filmmaking from Scotland, these programmes will provide multiple entry points and a platform for bold, original voices with international appeal from across the country.
OUR pRogRammes
Gaelic Short Film Writing Lab
Saturday 30th May @ 10am – 2pm
Exclusively for Gaelic speakers and learners, Take Three is running an online Short Film Writing Lab.
Applications for Bigger Picture are open, with one project ringfenced for Gaelic talent.
If you are thinking of submitting an idea to us, or just want to know more about short film writing, come and learn about what makes a great short film, analyse some amazing shorts, and be inspired to write one yourself.
Ruth Paxton : Director
Bigger Picture
Applications open for 2026
These films are for filmmakers who have already made a feature but really want to make a short film, or for filmmakers who are on the verge of making their feature debut and would benefit from making one more short before moving into long form.
The films will have more experienced producers at the helm, helping to build relationships with talent and showcase that talent to feature film financiers.
TAKE THREE will contribute £90,000 to the production budget, but teams will be expected to secure other third-party financing in addition to the tax credit. Up to 4 films will be awarded funding. This programme is supported by Screen Scotland and MG ALBA.
English project deadline: Friday 5th June @ 23:59
Gaelic project deadline: Friday 19th June @ 23:59
Laura Dinnett : Cinematographer
North Star Shorts
Applications open for 2026
New for this year, North Star Shorts is open to animation and live action projects.
Supported by both Screen Scotland and BFI NETWORK, six short films by early career talent will be awarded production funding of £25,000 plus an additional £3,000 will be available to support development.
Filmmakers will be supported to refine their own voice and create work that will succeed both creatively and commercially. Production support will be given as required to ensure that producers feel fully prepared.
Deadline: Friday 19th June @ 23:59
Credit: Sonja Blietschau
Next Wave
Applications open on 19th May 2026.
Two films by filmmakers who may have received a previous short film production award through a Screen Scotland and/or BFI NETWORK programme, will be awarded funding.
One Gaelic language film by filmmakers who have made a short film or TV drama that has received funding, or won an award with an industry body, will be awarded funding.
£25,000 budgets will be available to support further refinement of skills and voice, as well as the chance to make a brand – new splash on the international film festival circuit.
These films are funded by Screen Scotland and MG ALBA.
A wee bit about us
TAKE THREE is delivered by Producer Carolynne Sinclair Kidd and Industry Consultant Holly Daniel, via their new company Screen Projects.
With expertise in all aspects of filmmaking, from development through to exhibition, the Take Three team are perfectly placed to support new, emerging and more established short filmmakers as they develop their craft and reach international audiences.
CRew!
Are you interested in working on short films and collaborating with talented early career writers, directors and producers? If you are a head of department or feel you’re ready to step up, please get in touch with us and we will add you to our short film talent pool.
We need your name, email address, role, CV, and a sample of your work if possible.
Please send all info to office@takethree.scot.
Gavin Hopkins : Cinematographer