Awarding funds from the National Lottery, the Fund aims to boost diversity and inclusivity, and to build a broad film culture across the UK which recognises and values the quality of difference and seeks to rebalance under-representation on screen, in the workforce and in audiences.
The BFI also supports film audience initiatives through the BFI Film Audience Network. Read more about the .
COVID-19
The BFI Audience Fund remains open for Project applications. Despite the dramatic effects that COVID-19 is having on our sector, we want to continue delivering on our mission to give everyone, everywhere in the UK the opportunity to enjoy and learn from the richest and most diverse range of great British and international filmmaking, past, present and future.
We’d like to remind applicants that audience-facing online initiatives and Video on Demand strategies remain eligible for funding. We also ask that applications for business-as-usual projects include contingency plans in case social distancing measures continue for an extended period or are brought back.
We are in an unprecedented time in our business and cultural sector and we want to be as flexible as possible for our community as well ensuring audience safety.
For the latest advice and information head to our dedicated , and share any concerns and questions with us at covid-19.queries@bfi.org.uk
Awards
There are two types of awards available from the BFI Audience Fund:
- Project awards
- Organisational awards
Please note that the Organisational Award strand is now closed to applications. There will not be a call for new applications in 2020-21.
For more information and before making an application, please read the BFI Audience Fund guidelines.
BFI Audience Fund - Guidelines 188.08 KB
How to apply
To make a new application, use the link below. If you are a new applicant to the BFI Audience Fund, you will need to create an account before completing the application form.
Make a BFI Audience Fund application
BFI Audience Fund application preview 306.88 KB
If you already have an account and want to access any previous applications, use the link below.
All applications must be submitted with an income and expenditure budget on the relevant BFI Audience Fund template supplied below and an environmental sustainability policy.
Budget templates:
For assistance with making an application or for any queries relating to the BFI Audience Fund, contact audiencefund@bfi.org.uk.
We can provide assistance to applicants who have a disability, are D/deaf, have a visual or hearing impairment or are neurodiverse, where this support is needed in order for someone to make an application to the BFI Audience Fund. Visit for information.
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2018-19 BFI Audience Fund results
We review the impact National Lottery funding had on film audiences across the year.