At Day Job, we believe in the power of filmmakers with a clear, unique vision who aren’t afraid to push boundaries. We understand that talented creators often face a major obstacle: the interference of picky producers and commercial agendas that can stifle creativity. That’s why we’re launching our Short Film Fund, a competition designed to give directors the freedom to create exactly what they envision.

There are countless talented filmmakers out there, but so few opportunities to make their vision a reality. With this competition, we aim to change that. If you have a story you’re passionate about and a vision that deserves to be seen, we want to help make it happen. The competition is open to filmmakers worldwide, though all production must take place in the UK. Whether your project is animation or live-action, we accept both. Applicants may also include a plan for adapting their script into a feature-length film (this is optional and will not change our final decision).

We want this competition to be a fair and transparent process, ensuring every applicant’s work is fully reviewed and understood, giving everyone the opportunity to be heard. This competition is about empowering filmmakers to create without compromise and bring their unique ideas to life. The competition will run in three rounds, giving you the chance to present your project in detail and allowing us to fully understand your vision. We’ll share more details soon on how the application process will work. Stay tuned, and get ready to submit your project in May! Let’s make your vision come to life, on your terms.

Awards & Prizes

We’re offering a budget of up to £7000, for you to explore your creative ideas without compromise and make your film on your own terms, free from outside influence.

Rules & Terms

Round 1: Pitch Deck Submission (Deadline: September 30th)

In the first round, applicants will submit a pitch deck outlining their project. This should include an overview of your concept, the story, key characters, visual style, and any other details that help us understand the essence of your vision. We’re looking for originality and clarity in how you plan to bring your project to life.

Round 2: Script Submission

Those who progress to the second round will be asked to submit the script for their short film. The script should fully reflect the ideas you outlined in your pitch, offering insight into your narrative, structure, and character development. We want to see how you intend to bring the project from concept to execution on the page.

Round 3: Interview

The final round will consist of an interview where we will speak with you directly to dive deeper into your project. This will be an opportunity to discuss your vision, how you plan to execute it, and what makes your project unique. We want to ensure we fully understand how you intend to bring your creative vision to life.

Judging & Winner Selection​

The competition will be judged by a panel of industry professionals who will assess your pitch deck, script, and interview. We make sure that each application is thoroughly reviewed, with at least one team member reading your pitch deck and script in full.

The winner will be awarded full creative control over their project, with no interference from producers or other external influences. Our goal is to give you the freedom to execute your vision exactly as you see fit.​​

additional information

1) Only UK based applicants.
2) All production must take place in the UK.
3) We accept both animation and live action films.

​We want this competition to be a fair and transparent process, and we’re committed to ensuring that every applicant has the opportunity to be heard and understood. If selected, we guarantee your script will be read through completely at least once. We believe in the power of creative autonomy, and this competition is about empowering filmmakers to bring their unique ideas to life.