GAELIC storytellers are being invited to develop ideas for feature films under a new scheme backed by BBC ALBA, MG ALBA, BBC Film and Screen Scotland.
Up to two projects will receive early-stage funding to support a first draft screenplay and further revisions, with successful applicants also offered guidance from development executives and industry specialists.
The initiative is aimed at writers with experience in screenwriting, theatre, literature or other narrative forms who have ideas for films told predominantly in Gaelic.
Projects should reflect an “authentic Gaelic voice and perspective” and celebrate the language’s culture, creativity and dramatic potential.
The partners said the opportunity was inspired by the international success of minority-language films including Irish-language drama An Cailín Ciúin, Irish film Kneecap and Arracht.
It also draws on recent Scottish productions such as The Outrun, Aftersun and this year’s Edinburgh International Film Festival opening film, The Incomer.
The selected writers will receive support towards taking their projects closer to production, with input from BBC Film, Screen Scotland, BBC ALBA and MG ALBA.
Margaret Mary Murray, head of Gaelic services at BBC Scotland, said: “The BBC / MG ALBA partnership is always looking for creative and innovative ways to evolve our offer to audiences. It’s great to have this new development take shape and I’m excited to see where this opportunity takes us.”
Margaret Cameron, director of content at MG ALBA, said the organisation had long hoped to expand into developing cinema projects.
She said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with BBC Film and Screen Scotland on this opportunity for Gaelic writers to develop feature film projects.
“It’s been a long-held ambition to move into this area, to create projects that can exist in cinematic and festival spaces as well as television and to contribute to the incredible growth of screen activity in Scotland.”
Kieran Hannigan, head of scripted at Screen Scotland, said the programme demonstrated a desire to bring long-form Gaelic work to international audiences.
He said: “This is an incredibly exciting development for Gaelic features and represents the real desire of all involved to see long-form Gaelic content reach an international audience.
“Having recently partnered with BBC ALBA on An t-Eilean, an upcoming web series and several short films, we are excited by the breadth of talent in this country and partnering with BBC Film adds a crucial element, enabling projects to take that next vital step-up.”
Kristin Irving, senior commissioning executive at BBC Film, added: “Writing in their native language allows a writer to speak in their true voice, whilst giving audiences access to cultural authenticity and fresh perspectives.
“We are excited to support Gaelic storytellers with this development initiative alongside our partners at MG ALBA and Screen Scotland.”
The deadline for submissions is October 19, 2026.
