Sinema Cymru

Following a  trailblazing first year of Sinema Cymru feature film development, we are delighted to open a second round of development funding.

This year, in addition to applications from established filmmakers, we are particularly encouraging applications from emerging filmmakers. We want to cast the net even wider to receive as many visionary cinematic feature proposals as possible; films with global appeal and core Welsh authenticity.

Please note that this year, Sinema Cymru is offering two levels of support within our development fund- small awards of up to £10,000, and large awards of up to £30,000 (please read the below guidelines carefully to ascertain which to apply for).

A talent development programme as well as film fund, Sinema Cymru will work with creative teams to develop bespoke career development plans as well as project support. 

Teams must be able to commit to a tight schedule for development, which will be more intensive than usual film development, so please bear this in mind at the point of application.

Sinema Cymru at a Glance

• A programme to support single live-action feature length films in the Welsh Language with big screen potential.
• Applications must include a lead writer, director or producer who is based in Wales (but not all roles need to be filled at the point of application). 
• Applicants should have relevant experience of work in the creative industries. We don’t expect all core team members to be experienced in screen but will ultimately be looking for a balance of experience across team members. 
• Not all members of the writing, directing, producing team need to be fluent Welsh speakers.  
• Teams will need to make a sufficient time commitment to meet the timeframes of the scheme, with final deliverables due in early Spring 2026. 
• Teams will additionally be provided with a bespoke package of support for elements such as mentorship or market attendance that will support the development of their career and their film.

Deadline

The deadline for this year’s Sinema Cymru programme is:

Midday, 16th June 2025 

We will inform applicants of outcomes within 4-6 weeks of this date, with activity commencing immediately after notification. 
 

How to apply

Unless we’ve agreed an alternative way of applying with you (see Access support below) you should: 

1. Read the Guidelines
2. Download and complete the application form
3. Email the completed form and any necessary supporting documents to applications@ffilmcymruwales.com 

What do I need to apply with? 

Along with your application form, you will be required to submit the documents detailed in the Application Checklist, including:

• A script for the project you’re applying with OR a story treatment of at least 2000, but no more than 5000 words.
• A full-length writing sample from the writer (e.g for a full tv episode, film, play). If the sample is short-form, less than 20 pages, then two samples should be provided. 
• CVs for your core team and an active link to the director’s (if attached) most relevant previous work
• Details of option/underlying rights agreements if applicable 
• A copy of your company sustainability policy, bullying & harassment policy, diversity and inclusion policy (if applying as a company)

Access Support and Inclusion

We believe in a sector that works for everyone and we are passionate about broadening access to the screen sector.

For applicants with access requirements, for example individuals who are D/deaf, hard-of-hearing, Disabled, neurodiverse, and people with sight loss, support is available to complete an application. Please contact us to let us know how we can help. For example, we can cover the costs of a BSL interpreter for a meeting with us prior to making an application, scribing support for dyslexic applicants, extend the application deadline, or agree alternative formats for applying such as video applications or slide decks. We’ll be guided by you. 

Contact Details 

If you have any questions or access requests please contact the below in advance of the application deadline:

Gwenfair Hawkins, Development and Production Executive, gwenfair@ffilmcymruwales.com

We are also offering 121 slots with a Sinema Cymru executive if there are any parts of the application process you are unsure of. These are being offered on the 26th and 27th of May, and you can sign up here.