Film London recognizes the importance of supporting emerging talent, as well as actively encouraging film-making and film activity in local communities.

In 2006 Film London strengthened its support of London-based film-making talent by launching the London Borough Film Fund Challenge (LBFFC), through which 'clusters' of London boroughs offer residents up to £4,000 towards the production of a short film.

In collaboration with the Mayor of London, and working in partnership with the capital's local authorities, LBFFC aims to discover grassroots talent, stimulate local film-making and develop new skills. The participating boroughs run and fund the schemes, with Film London providing financial support, dedicated advice and resources. This year, nine boroughs are taking part.

A key part of the scheme, showcasing the shorts made through the London Borough Film Fund Challenge, is the annual Best of Boroughs Film Awards (aka the BoBs). In previous years and run in parallel to the LBFFC, the Film London in 90 Seconds competition awarded prizes to the best films of up to 90 seconds in duration made across the capital. The winners of the 2010 edition of the competition can be watched here.

London Borough Film Fund Challenge

Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark
Southern Exposure Film Fund
Deadline for applications: closed
Now in its fifth year, the Southern Exposure Film Fund encourages film-makers from Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark to develop their potential. Production grants of up to £3,000 per project are offered alongside weekly masterclasses during development and prep, in areas such as story editing, casting and marketing/distribution. Projects can be of any length and genre - Southern Exposure is committed to supporting original and exciting voices, whatever the story. Cross-borough working and the use of local crew and facilities is encouraged. For further information contact Elizabeth Mitchell by email: elizabeth@tailormadeproductions.com.

Enfield and Haringey
North London Film Partnership Fund
Deadline for applications: closed
Film-makers living or working within the two boroughs can apply for grants of up to £2,000 to make a short film. The NLFP Fund will award up to two film-makers £2,000 each to shoot their film in one day and provide a package of support during the preparations leading up to the shoot and afterwards. For further information contact Brek Taylor by email info@nlfp.org.uk.

Wandsworth and Kensington & Chelsea
Shorts Film Fund
Deadline for applications: closed
Up to £4,000 is available to film-makers who live, work or study in one of the two boroughs for the production of new work or the completion of film projects. For further enquiries contact filmoffice@rbkc.gov.uk.

Barking & Dagenham and Redbridge
Eastern Edge Film Fund
Deadline for applications: closed
The fund aims to support emerging and experienced film-makers living, working or studying in one of the three boroughs to produce an original short film. Two grants of up to £3,000 are available. The award also includes free professional support from an Executive Producer, training from industry professionals, free access to production facilities and opportunities for public screenings. For further information contact Michael McCormack on 020 8724 8797 or email michael.mccormack@lbbd.gov.uk.


Contact
To find out more about the London Borough Film Fund Challenge, or for general enquiries about short film funding, please contact Josic Cadoret by email: josic.cadoret@filmlondon.org.uk.