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Funding Programme Queries

How do I apply for funding from Bord Scannan na hEireann/the Irish Film Board (IFB)?
The full application procedure for funding from Bord Scannan na hEireann is outlined on our website.

Can I submit a full screenplay for consideration for Screenplay Development Funding?
It is preferable that the project be submitted at treatment stage for screenplay development funding, however, a first draft script may also be submitted.

Are readers reports available for unsuccessful projects submitted for the Short Film Schemes?
Yes, readers reports are available on request by emailing Jill McGregor, Short Schemes Co-Ordinator jill.mcgregor@irishfilmboard.ie with the details of the project.

Will my application be returned?

Due to the large volume of material that is submitted to the IFB on an ongoing basis, the IFB is not in a position to return applications to individuals. Applicants should retain copies of all materials submitted.

What are the criteria that IFB use to assess projects submitted for funding?
A detailed explanation of IFB criteria can be found on this website at http://www.irishfilmboard.ie/funding_programmes/Principles__Criteria/33

Can you provide a template of a writer agreement and option agreement?
No, professional legal advice should always be taken.  However, a list of the minimum contractual requirements of IFB can be downloaded from this page.

If I am a Student, can I still apply for funding?
No, Students in second or third level education are precluded from applying for funding.

If I am an Irish Citizen no longer resident in Ireland, can I still apply for funding?
Yes, anybody can apply for funding but in order to receive the funding you must have an Irish registered company, an Irish Co-Producer with an Irish registered company or as a writer(s) be able to provide an Irish tax clearance certificate.

Do I need a Tax Clearance Certificate?
All individuals (including companies not resident in the State) in receipt of IFB funding must provide an up-to-date Tax Clearance Certificate. Further information about availing of a certificate can be found on the Revenue Commissioners website.

Do I need to have a registered Company to access funding from IFB?
All funding awards in excess of €15,000 must be contracted with a company registered in the Irish State (http://www.cro.ie/), as IFB is obliged to take security against the loan in the form of a charge over the company's interest in the film project.

Is the micro-budget scheme still in existence?
Yes, the IFB still accepts applications for projects that fall under the micro-budget schemes, although these awards are very rare.  The IFB can fund 100% of the production cost of €100,000 for feature length films (live-action and documentary).  For further information, please consult the Fiction Irish Production Funding Section. The same form, procedures and guidelines apply.

What are the criteria for applying for Completion Funding?
In order to apply for Completion Funding, you must be able to provide a rough cut of the feature length film and comply with a number of legal requirements as legislated by the IFB.  Please consult the Completion Funding page on our website where you will find a presentation on Low Budget Filmmaking and Completion Funding by Mark Byrne, Business & Legal Executive. A checklist of the minimum requirements for completion funding can be obtained by emailing the Production & Development Co-ordinator Sarah Dillon. 

Is IFB Production Funding repayable?
Yes, the IFB Production and Completion Funding is offered in the form of a repayable loan.  The IFB will expect to recoup pro rata and pari passu with any other equity investors and to receive an ongoing net profit share once recouped.

Are IFB Development Loan repayable?
Yes, all IFB Development Loans are repayable on the first day of principle photography of the project. The responsibility for the repayment of the amount lies with the person in possession of the option/rights of the project.

How can I access Section 481?
Applications for certification should be made to the Revenue Commissioners who handle the administration of the scheme.  While there is no minimum level of funding that can be raised, typically projects should be incurring a minimum of €500,000 in ‘eligible' expenditure to provide any significant level of return.  Find out more on our Section 481 page of the website.

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