BFI National Lottery Innovation Challenge Fund

The BFI describes this fund as "Awarding National Lottery funding to develop innovative new solutions which tackle the UK screen sector's most critical challenges."

The fund operates on a challenge-call model. The page states that "up to 12 challenge calls" have been "identified" between 2026 and 2029. For Challenge Call 6, the page describes the focus as "Exploring the impacts of providing independent filmmakers with access to new technologies," and states that it offers "up to £400,000."

On timing for Challenge Call 6, the page states: "The deadline for applications is midnight on Thursday 9 April," and that awards "are expected to be made in August 2026."

To apply, the page directs applicants to "read the funding guidelines," where "The application link is included in the guidelines."