We believe in the importance of a diverse film & TV industry to be able to bring authentic stories to the screen.

We know working class voices are under-represented in front of and behind the camera, with many barriers to industry. So, we’ve created a scheme to nurture emerging filmmakers to influence change in the industry from the ground up.

We support new talent with funding, mentorship, access to industry and a platform to display their work, empowering them to grow as confident documentary makers.

What is the Doc Fund?

In 2025-2026 Northern Heart we will be supporting 2 x emerging documentary filmmakers from working class backgrounds based in the North of England.

Every year we will have a theme and each applicant must apply with an idea for a short (up to) 10 minute documentary film they can make over the next six months.

25-26 scheme

2 x winners will receive a £3,000 cash grant, mentoring, post production support, one industry pass to Sheffield DocFest ‘25 plus a screening of your film in a cinema, and more!

The theme for 25-26 is: CLASS & CLIMATE.

Applications are currently open

Applications close at midnight on the 28th April.

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The 2 winners will each receive

  • £3,000 grant

    A non-repayable grant courtesy of Wigan Council and Creative Lancashire and Iambic Dream Foundation. Spend wisely!

  • Mentor & Masterclasses

    You will have a dedicated mentor to offer advice and guidance on making your short documentary.

    You will also have the opportunity to join industry masterclasses throughout the scheme. More details tbc!

  • Post Production support

    Sticks & Glass will be providing each filmmaker the opportunity to have a professional sound mix and colour grade so your films look and sound great on the big screen!

  • Cinema screening

    We’ll celebrate your films by hosting a film screening at Leigh Film Factory in Greater Manchester. This is the perfect chance to showcase your work on the big screen in front of industry guests.

  • 1 x Sheffield DocFest pass

    Each filmmaker will be awarded an industry pass to Sheffield DocFest 2025. You’re welcome to soak up a week of films, industry talks and networking to help your career.

  • Wellbeing support

    New for 25-26, Film in Mind will support each filmmaker with consultation and therapy should you require it.

Application Form

  • The Director must fill out This Google Form and answer all questions around:

    • Eligibility

    • How you identify as ‘working class’

    • Why you want to be part of this scheme.

    Deadline is midnight 28th April 2025.

  • Please send a 4-6 page Creative Treatment as a PDF attachment (no more than 10MB) to docfund@northernheartfilms.co.uk

    It must include:

    • Working title and synopsis

    • Up to 3 x links to previous films or creative work

    • Creative Approach

    • Overview of how you’ve addressed the theme

    • Directors vision

    • Wider team and collaborators

    • Budget breakdown

    Deadline is midnight 28th April 2025.

  • "This scheme felt different to anything I've ever been part of."

    Vicky Best (22-23)

  • "They genuinely care about us. Whatever we needed to make our films, they actively helped source."

    Samuel Oddie (22-23)

  • “Without this support, there's no way I would've been able to make a film this year and move forward with my filmmaking career in this way."

    Olivia Hird (24-25)