There are many sources of funding available to short

filmmakers:Government funding for shorts comes largely through the UK Film Council, but there are other sources if you are prepared to look hard and to work your film around their agendas. Many funding sources look to fund digital shorts rather than projects that want to shoot on film, based on the argument that new directors should cut their teeth on the cheaper medium.

Local Councils

Local councils will often put money towards a short filmmaking initiative, especially if it deals with social exclusion or aids the local community in some way. You could visit your local council or county website to find out if their arts department will support a film project.

CharitiesA number of charities fund short films. If you're interested in getting funding from a charity, think laterally about the type of film you are trying to make and don’t be afraid to contact organisations that are in some way linked to the topic/goal of your film. For example the Wellcome Trust (UK's largest medical research charity) has an Arts Award that funds projects (including short films) inspired by biomedical science.

British CouncilOnce your film is complete it can be a lengthy and costly process getting it seen. This is where the British Council can help. The British Council run a long-established and unique scheme whereby selected films are promoted to the list of 50-60 major international film festivals. There are also other perks, such as reduced entry fees, as well as possible travel grants.

How to apply for funding:Funders look at hundreds of film applications every round, so any application you make should be as detailed and as striking as possible. The success of your application will probably depend upon what elements you have in place e.g. the quality of your script, the director, the director of photography and acting talent that you have attached. It is important to maximise all these elements in order to make your application as enticing as possible.

What to include in application:•CVs: Including those of Producer, Director, Writer, Actors, Director of Photography, Production Designer•Budgets & Schedules (see Filmmaking Guide: Budget & Schedule)•A concise paragraph outlining your idea: From a creative and technical point of view (e.g. the director’s vision, the distribution plans for the film etc).•Storyboards & Mood Boards: It's really important to illustrate your idea. Applications with storyboards or mood boards stand out far more than those without a visual element. Storyboards are graphic illustrations of the shots & scenes in your film. •Make an impression: It sounds obvious but typed treatments/ideas/applications are far easier to read and provide a much neater overview then a hastily written piece of scrap paper. Check for spelling errors/typos, label everything, and make sure your application delivers a first (positive) impression that will help your work stand out from the rest.•Showreel: Most funders will want to see examples of your work, so a well put together showreel is essential. If you haven't made a complete film, your showreel could include: graphic design, a photo gallery, ads, virals etc