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Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland

4 schemes tracked

Direct Distribution

Direct Distribution Funding helps Irish producers cover the costs of a theatrical release in Ireland (including Northern Ireland) for feature films that have already received Screen Ireland Production or Completion Funding but could not secure suitable theatrical distribution by a bona fide Irish distributor. It is structured as a limited recourse loan, recoverable from theatrical revenues only, capped at 90% of the total eligible distribution budget up to a maximum of €20,000.

Grant range
Up to €20,000
Funding level
90%
Support type
Other
Last checked
4 Sept 2026
Start this application on Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland's website (opens in a new tab)

About this scheme

Direct Distribution Funding supports Irish producers with the costs of a theatrical release in Ireland (including Northern Ireland) for feature films that have already received Screen Ireland Production or Completion Funding but were unable to secure suitable theatrical distribution through a bona fide Irish distribution company. The funding is structured as a limited recourse loan recoverable from theatrical box office revenues only, and Screen Ireland retains full approval over all incurred costs. Support is capped at 90% of the total eligible distribution budget, up to a maximum of €20,000. Eligible costs include DCPs, trailer design, key art/poster/advertising production, IFCO certification, media space, marketing/publicity/promotional costs, third-party PR fees, and accessibility materials. Ineligible costs include company overheads, alcohol, catering, gifts, and most travel expenses. The producer is responsible for preparing the film for theatrical release, with meaningful consultation with Screen Ireland required throughout. Applicants must consult Screen Ireland's Head of Audiences and provide a copy of the film before applying.

Who can apply

  • Applicant must be a production company established/incorporated in the Republic of Ireland
  • Film must be a full-length feature film (fiction, animation or documentary) already in receipt of Screen Ireland Production or Completion funding
  • Film must be planned for theatrical release in Ireland (including Northern Ireland)
  • Film must have been unable to secure suitable theatrical distribution by a bona fide Irish distribution company
  • A positive assessment of the producer's release plan and overall distribution budget is required
  • Requires commitment from at least one exhibitor to screen the film for at least one week, plus evidence of interest from further suitable venues
  • Requires prior exposure at an Irish Film Festival and evidence of positive critical and/or audience reaction at an Irish or international film festival

How to apply

  1. Consult with Screen Ireland's Head of Audiences prior to making an application, and make a copy of the film available to them
  2. Apply online using the 'Make an Application' button on the Screen Ireland website (or contact 091 561 398 for a postal application form)
  3. Submit before the relevant application deadline; the application portal closes at 1pm on the deadline day
  4. Applications that do not meet the published criteria are automatically withdrawn