First Draft is a transformative new feature film script development programme designed to discover and elevate the next wave of Scotland’s screenwriting talent.
Delivered by The Portal Arts as part of Screen Scotland’s Talent Builder initiative, the programme supports writers to develop their ideas from a strong story treatment into a polished first draft feature-length screenplay.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
First Draft offers screenwriters a valuable opportunity to undertake a development process with the aim of creating a robust treatment, working towards delivering a polished first draft feature-length screenplay. Screenwriters will benefit from:
- One-to-one mentorship with a Development Executive
- Script workshops to refine story, character, and structure
- Masterclasses with industry professionals
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
We welcome pitches for all genres and tones (drama, comedy, thriller, horror, romance, experimental, etc) as long as your idea is character-driven, creatively bold, visually and emotionally engaging, with a strong potential to resonate in Scotland and beyond.
This is a paid opportunity, enabling screenwriters to dedicate meaningful time and focus to their script’s development.
Screenwriters can apply for up to £15,000, with additional costs of up to £5,000 managed on a case-by-case basis, for enhanced development if required. Screenwriters should anticipate developing and working on a polished project treatment before moving on to writing their first draft.
If you are funded, you must be committed to attending development and training workshops with the Development Executive, online and in-person, as well as being committed to writing during your own time.
KEY PROGRAMME DATES
- Monday 18th August 2025: Applications Open
- Sunday 14th September 2025: Applications Close
ELIGIBILITY
To apply, you must:
- Be aged 18 or over
- Living in Scotland
- Have experience writing in screenplay format
- Be developing your first feature film screenplay
- Have not previously had a feature film screenplay that has been theatrically distributed
GUIDELINES
To view our guidelines please click HERE
CONTACT US
If your question isn’t covered in the FAQs below, we’re here to help.
If you’d like more information about the programme, wish to request a 1–2–1 with Programme Producer, Helen Sim-Robertson, or have a general enquiry, please use our First Draft Contact Form to get in touch.
FAQs
Who will read my application?
All applications will be assessed by the First Draft team, with final selection made in consultation with Screen Scotland representatives.
Do I need to have written a feature film before?
Ideally, yes — applicants should have experience writing a feature-length script, even if it hasn’t been produced or polished. We will also consider writers with equivalent experience in long-form storytelling — for example, TV writers with one-hour episodes, or stage/radio writers with comparable narrative scope. Writers whose only experience is in short-form work may still apply but should be aware that applications with long-form experience will be prioritised.
I’m not sure if I should apply to First Draft or Take Three — what’s the difference?
First Draft focuses on developing a feature-length screenplay, from treatment to first draft. If your idea is for a short film, or you’d like to explore short-form before tackling a feature, Take Three offers dedicated short-film programmes such as North Star Shorts, Next Wave, and The Bigger Picture. These provide development and production support for short fiction projects. Find out more at takethree.scot
Can I apply if I already have a producer or director attached?
Yes. Producer or director attachment is not required, but if selected and they are involved in the programme, a small fee will be available to them from the overall development fee.
How long does the programme run for?
From November 2025 to October 2026, with regular 1:1 sessions with the Development Executive, personal writing time, and occasional industry masterclasses.
How much will I be paid?
Screenwriter may receive up to £15,000, with up to £5,000 additional support for enhanced development needs (case-by-case). Payments are made in instalments linked to agreed milestones as set out in the guidelines HERE.
Will you own my script if I’m selected?
No. You retain all rights to your script. We ask only for credit acknowledgement and the right to reference the project in promotional materials.
What genres are accepted?
All genres, including drama, comedy, thriller, horror, romance, experimental, and more, as long as the idea is original, character-driven, and emotionally engaging.
What do I need to include in my application?
You’ll need:
- A 3–4 page story outline/treatment
- Two writing samples (one must be at least 30 continuous pages)
- A “Why You, Why Now” statement (max 300 words)
- Personal statement (max 500 words)
- Creative influences (max 500 words)
- Reflection on a film that didn’t work for you (max 400 words)
- CV or short bio
- Optional 2-minute video introduction
- AI usage declaration
Can I submit more than one project?
You can be attached to a maximum of two applications, but each must be submitted separately.
Can I submit a full script instead of a pitch?
No. Your application must include a pitch for your chosen idea. If you have already written a draft of the project, you may submit this in addition to your pitch and writing sample(s). Please be aware that, as this is a development-focused programme, you may be asked to take your screenplay back to treatment stage and rework it as part of the process.
What happens with my script once I complete my polished first draft?
Once you have a polished first draft of your screenplay, you may be invited to apply for further development funding from Screen Scotland. We’ll guide you through the next steps and provide personalised support, ensuring you have the advice and encouragement you need for your project’s journey ahead.
Can I use AI tools to help with my application?
Yes, but any use of AI must be disclosed in your application, and all submitted work must be your own original voice and creative decisions.
Will the programme cover my access needs?
Yes. If you have personal access requirements that will incur costs (e.g., travel support, specialist equipment, interpreters), you can apply for additional funding alongside your development fee.
Will there be feedback if I’m unsuccessful?
Unfortunately, due to the expected high number of applications, we can’t offer individual feedback.
Can I complain if I disagree with a decision?
Complaints will only be considered if they relate to the process (e.g., how your application was handled), not the assessment outcome.
I am currently in full-time education, can I apply?
You will not be eligible if you will be enrolled in full-time formal further or higher education at any point between November 2025 and October 2026 (or until your project has been delivered).
I am under 18, can I apply?
No – you must be 18 or over to apply. If you’re aged 16–25, passionate about film, and interested in a career in the screen industry, you may wish to explore opportunities through the BFI Film Academy.
I was previously funded by Scottish Film Talent Network (SFTN), Short Circuit or First Feature. Can I apply?
Yes – as long as your application meets the programme’s eligibility criteria and you are developing a new feature film screenplay.
I have a connection with one of the First Draft funding or delivery partners. Can I apply?
If you have a personal relationship with a staff or board member of one of the delivery or funding partners, please declare this in your application so we can ensure it is assessed without any conflicts of interest. If you are currently employed by Screen Scotland or The Portal Arts, or serve on their boards, you will not be eligible to apply.
My feature film idea isn’t set in Scotland. Does that matter?
Your story does not have to be set in Scotland, but you must be based in Scotland, and your screenplay should be intended for development and production in a way that delivers creative and/or economic benefit to the Scottish screen sector.
When is the deadline for submitting applications?
All applications must be submitted via the online form by midnight on Sunday 14 September 2025.
When will I hear if I’ve been selected?
Applicants will be notified by email within eight weeks of the application deadline.
If I am unsuccessful, can I reapply in future?
Yes – if the programme runs again in future, you may reapply with the same or a different project, provided it meets the eligibility criteria at that time.