1st call in 2019-20 for Applications to the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund.
Northern Ireland Screen is pleased to announce the application call date in 2019-20 for the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund (“USBF”).
1st call dates:
- Closing date: Friday 21st June 2019.
- Decisions to be made: late July 2019.
The USBF Committee has, with the assistance of an independent evaluation of the workings of the USBF, revised and refined the workings of the USBF. The primary theme of these revisions is to present greater clarity as to the content the USBF wishes to support, and to present a framework that will more effectively ensure the quality and appropriateness of the USBF supported content. The Revised Programme Commissioning Guidance provides further information on these revisions including editorial interests/priorities, changes to the USBF’s operation and objectives and targets.
The USBF is specifically seeking applications in 3 key areas:
- Language Programming
- Projects with links to Ulster-Scots sectoral and community groups
- Radio Programming
It remains a recommendation that applicants to the fund provide a greater degree of detail on the proposed projects than is presently demanded by a broadcaster at application stage. It is also strongly recommended that potential applicants engage with consultants who can provide the level of understanding of Ulster-Scots themes that will be required.
Please note that the funding of television or radio programmes by the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund is dependent on a broadcaster having indicated that it wishes to broadcast the programme proposed. Applications are encouraged with support from all broadcasters with significant reach in Northern Ireland.
Given that successful projects require support from both a broadcaster and the Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund, we encourage early dialogue with both the Fund and the relevant broadcaster.
Guidelines and Revised Programme Commissioning Guidance documents are available here