Short Film Exchange at The Galway Film Fleadh (2026)

Short Film Exchange at The Galway Film Fleadh (2026)

Short Film Exchange at The Galway Film Fleadh

The Galway Film Fair, and NTA Film & TV are excited to offer live-action fiction Short Film Writers, Writer/ Directors, and Producers an exclusive opportunity to connect through one-on-one meetings on Sunday July 12th. Following great success since its inception, The Short Film Exchange is returning to the Film Fair for the third year running.

For 2026, we are introducing a €500 Development Bursary for producer/writer teams formed during the Short Film Exchange. All participants will have the opportunity to apply for the bursary as a newly formed team, with the funding intended to support four teams with the further development of their script and project.

Format:

  • One-on-one meetings where writers can pitch their scripts to producers in a speed-dating format.
  • Each meeting will last approximately 5 minutes.
  • After the meetings, participants will have the chance to mingle and continue conversations in a more relaxed setting.

This exclusive networking session will to a wider NTA networking event offering filmmakers and industry professionals the opportunity to connect and build working relationships" - missing the words "open up" here

Please note, space for this wider networking event is limited, and an opportunity to RSVP will be live in the coming weeks

Dates/Duration: Afternoon of Sunday July 12th 

 

Who Can Apply:

All applicants must:

  • Be a full-time resident in Ireland (proof of address may be required)
  • Be over 21 years of age
  • Not be in full-time or part-time education
  • Be emerging or established short film writers, writer/directors, or producers
  • Writers must have a short film script and project to pitch. Applicants should have previously produced and/or funded work, as links to past work may be requested if selected.
  • Producers must be actively engaged in producing work, whether through previous credits or projects currently in development or Producer training.

 

NOTE: This is not recommended for new or entry-level talent to apply. Instead, new or entry-level talent are recommended to join the networking reception.

The NTA Film & TV will meet the access requirements of the selected applicants, while adjusting the event accordingly, and cover the associated costs.

How To Apply (Writers)

Interested writers must apply by completing the linked form linked HERE

In this form you will be asked to supply a download (Google Drive or Dropbox preferred) link with the follow materials:

  • A synopsis and logline (or Pitch Deck) and Short Film Script for the project for which you are seeking a producer.
  • One-and-a-half-minute pitch video. This video should briefly cover who you are, what the project is/is about, and why you are seeking a producer. (Filming this on the phone is perfectly fine!)
  • Media CV/work bio – detailing relevant experience

Please title each folder/document with your Full Name and documentation type. (e.g ‘SamKing.CV’)

 

How to Apply (Producers)

Interested producers must apply by completing the form linked HERE

In this form you will be asked to supply a download (Google Drive or Dropbox preferred) link to:

  • Media CV or professional biography detailing relevant experience, or a link to a personal/company website containing credits and further information.

An incomplete application will not be taken into consideration.  

Deadline to apply is June 29th at 12PM noon.

 

Selection Process:

The applications will be assessed by a panel, which will include representatives of the National Talent Academy for Film & Television, Galway Film Fleadh, and independent external assessors. 

This is an open application process, however in some instances the NTA Film & TV may work with industry stakeholders, including the Galway Film Fleadh and Screen Ireland, to identify talent who are ready to progress and encourage them to apply.

Approximately 10+ writers and 10+ producers will be selected to take part.

The NTA Film & TV will meet the access requirements of the selected applicants, while adjusting the event accordingly, and cover the associated costs.

 

Further Information

The Galway Film Fleadh is a week-long international film festival taking place every July on the western edge of Europe in Galway, Ireland. Founded in 1989 as a platform for Irish filmmakers to exhibit their work to their peers, the central goal of the Galway Film Fleadh remains unchanged: to be a platform for the boldest new films, and to bring audiences & filmmakers from around the world together, to celebrate our shared passion for film. The 2026 festival runs from July 7th– 12th

For any questions, please email filmandtv@nationaltalentacademies.ie

 

The National Talent Academy for Film and TV Drama is an initiative of Screen Ireland managed by Ardán.