Underscore Studios is a grassroots social enterprise and not-for-profit organisation with over six years of experience and dedication amplifying working-class filmmakers across the UK.
Based in London and the South West of England, and as a Creative UK Screen Launchpad organisation, Underscore Studios is dedicated to supporting emerging talent through accessible training, script development and industry opportunities.
Over the years, we have supported filmmakers through affordable workshops, script coverage services and creative development initiatives. Alongside support from Film London, we developed the Underscore Script Lab, while our industry partnerships continued to grow through our BFI-supported initiative, Underscore Cinema.
Through our work, we have built a community focused on helping filmmakers develop their voices, strengthen their projects and access opportunities that may otherwise feel out of reach.
Now, Underscore Studios enters its next chapter:
The Underscore Studios Film Fund
Ready to tell your story?
Applications for the Underscore Film Fund open September 2026.
About The Underscore Studios Film Fund
The Underscore Studios Film Fund is a new annual opportunity supporting working-class filmmakers across the UK through funding, mentorship and practical support.
We believe great stories can come from anywhere, but opportunity is not always distributed equally.
Rather than supporting completed films, the Film Fund provides the selected filmmaker with production finance, festival support, mentorship and practical guidance—helping outstanding short film ideas move closer to production.
🎬 £1,000 Production Award
The winning filmmaker will receive £1,000 towards the production of their short film.
This funding is designed to support an important stage in the filmmaking journey — helping filmmakers develop their ideas, strengthen their projects and take a meaningful step towards bringing their story to life.
The award represents an investment in the filmmaker, their creative vision and the future of their project.
🎟️ Up to £300 Festival & Distribution Support
In addition to production funding, the winning filmmaker will receive up to £300 of dedicated festival and distribution support to help their completed film reach audiences.
This support may contribute towards:
• Festival submission fees
• Distribution opportunities
• Digital Cinema Package (DCP) creation
• Subtitles and accessibility requirements
• Promotional materials
Our aim is not only to support the creation of the film, but to help the finished work find its audience.
🌱 Mentorship & Creative Development Support
Throughout the process, the winning filmmaker will receive support from Underscore Studios.
This may include:
• Script feedback and development conversations
• Creative guidance during the filmmaking process
• Production advice and problem-solving support
• Industry advice and signposting towards relevant opportunities
The filmmaker remains the creative owner of their work. Our role is to provide encouragement, guidance and practical support while helping them navigate the next stage of their journey.