Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council announces ongoing support for dlr First Frames Short Film Scheme to support emerging film talent

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is pleased to announce that the dlr First Frames Scheme will continue for 2026/27, supporting emerging filmmakers looking to develop creative short films based in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. There will be funding available for two creative shorts, with a budget of €15,000 each. The County Council works closely with the Institute of Art, Design and Technology’s (IADT) National Film School on this programme. 

Over the past several years, a diverse range of films has been supported, many of which have gone on to screen at prestigious film festivals both in Ireland and internationally, earning critical recognition and numerous awards. The application closing date is 20 July 2026 at noon (12.00). An online briefing session for those interested in applying for the Scheme will take place on Wednesday 13 May 2026 at 11am and anyone interested in attending can register here.

Councillor Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said: “We are delighted to continue our support for emerging filmmakers in the County.  dlr First Frames provides a vital opportunity at a key stage of their career development and many of the films have screened at festivals here in Ireland and abroad”.

Chief Executive Frank Curran said: “As a county, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown has a wealth of amazing locations for film and this Scheme makes excellent use of these. Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council is very pleased to continue our strong working relationship with IADT to provide this important Scheme”. 

Vanessa Gildea, Lecturer in Film and Television said "The dlr First Frames Scheme plays an increasingly vital role in Ireland’s film funding landscape, offering crucial support to emerging voices in the industry. At the National Film School, we are proud to collaborate with our local partner, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council Arts Office, in championing this important initiative and helping emerging creative talent bring new stories to the screen.”

dlr First Frames is funded by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s Arts Office and Economic Development Unit and managed by IADT.  Funding will be available through the Scheme to support two short films with awards of up to €15,000 (VAT inclusive) each. Mentoring support as well as additional equipment and facilities may be provided by the National Film School, IADT. 

dlr First Frames welcomes a variety of filmmaking styles and themes. It is open to creative shorts; the Scheme does not support animated films or documentaries. It aims to provide funding and support to emerging filmmakers, and to support employment in the film industry in the area. Emerging is defined by career stage – the Scheme is for filmmakers who are at an early stage making creative films.

For further information please see full details here