Apply for a place on IFFR Rotterdam Pro Lab 2027

We are offering two emerging UK-based producers the chance to take part in Rotterdam Producers Lab at International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2027.

As the film and television market gets ever more global, the Rotterdam Lab, organised as part of IFFR Pro, is an invaluable opportunity to be part of a five-day training workshop that offers emerging international professionals the means to build and develop their networks and learn about new developments in the industry.

As part of our Travel Grant Fund (in partnership with BFI International using National Lottery Funds), we're offering two emerging UK-based producers the opportunity to attend the IFFR Pro Lab between 29 January - 3 February 2027.

Apply by Monday 9 November 2026, 11:59pm (GMT)

What's included?

The Rotterdam Pro Lab programme consists of 5 full days, including sessions in different formats (masterclasses, panels, roundtables, workshops, case studies)

Selected participants will benefit from 6 nights' festival hotel accommodation and a CineMart accreditation, which entitles participants to attend all screenings and significant events (including CineMart delegate networking lunches and breakfasts) . Once notified, selected participants will be invited to apply for a Travel Grant to support the cost of participation including fees, travel and accommodation.

Shortlisted applicants for the Lab are nominated through the festival's partner organisations - and the British Council is the UK partner sourcing the best emerging filmmaking talent from across the UK. We are now looking to draw up a shortlist of UK applicants for the Rotterdam selection committee, which will then select the final participants.

Who can apply?

We are looking for emerging producers from across the UK to take part who can demonstrate a strong interest in expanding their international network and working beyond their local context. This could include independent producers with their own companies, or junior producers working for a production company.

Candidates should have produced a minimum of two short films and/or be working on their first or second feature film. Existing films should be an international co-production or applicants should be working on their first international co-production.

How to apply

To apply, you will need to complete an application form with the following:

• A brief summary of your producing work to date
• A link to your CV / company profile or LinkedIn profile
• A letter of motivation no more than 650 words

Access Support

If you require any access support or alternative formats to help you with your application, please contact films@britishcouncil.org

Apply here

Lab Grant applications for UK-based participants on the Rotterdam Lab programme must have come through this official British Council call out. Only two UK-based producers will be selected for funding from this call-out. (It is possible that other Rotterdam partners will select UK participants who have not applied to the lab through this route, however they will not be eligible for this funding).

The deadline for applications is Monday 9 November 2026 at 11:59PM.

Applicants will be notified by Friday 20 November 2026.

Applications made after the deadline will not be considered.

For more information please visit https://iffr.com/en/iffr-pro/talent-development/rotterdam-lab