Proud Voices On Screen is proud to announce a programme to support queer writers developing a feature film script
Four queer writers with a feature film script will be selected to take part in an eight-month development programme. Each participant will receive a writing grant of $15,000 and will take part in a queer-led development programme including workshops, tailored script development and wrap-around support.
Projects need to be at draft stage to be eligible, but do not need a producer attached.
-
Applications close 3 March 2025, 5pm
Applicants notified of outcome by 10 April 2026
-
Four writers will receive:
A grant of $15,000
Access to support from script editors and advisors in adjacent creative fields that are beneficial to story craft
Four workshop days with other participants
One workshop day with the participants of the Emerging Producers Incubator
Wrap-around support
Participants must be available for these compulsory programme dates:
5-6 May 2026 - Opening Two-Day Workshop
16 June 2025 - One-Day Workshop
17 June 2026 - One-Day Shared Workshop with Emerging Queer Producer Incubator Participants
8 Dec 2026 - Final One-Day Workshop
-
The project needs to be at least at first draft stage - applicants will need to submit a copy of the latest draft for the application.
The writer does not need any prior experience with having work produced, but evidence of prior experience will be advantageous.
Writers must have the rights to the story they are telling if it is adapted from another work.
The story doesn’t need to be ‘queer,’ the storyteller does (it can be though!!)
The writer needs to disclose to PVOS that they identify as queer*
*Proud Voices On Screen takes the safety and privacy of our community very seriously. This information is recorded for internal information only. Any successful applicant has the right to remain anonymous and should they wish, we are happy to omit their name and details from any online posts and/or announcements.
Co-writer/s do not need to be queer to be eligible, however teams where co-writers are queer will be prioritised.
Projects do not need to have a director or producer attached.
If there is a producer or director attached, they do not need to be queer, however teams where all members identify as queer will be prioritised.
-
You must answer the following in your application:
ABOUT YOU
Tell us about your experience so far as a writer, detailing any completed or produced works, and any achievements in writing (300 words max)
Tell us a bit about your whakapapa and anything you wish to share about your identity (250 words max)
Tell us about your creative journey including what you are currently working on and your aspirations as a writer (250 words max)
(The above for co-writers too if applicable)
ABOUT YOUR PROJECT
Logline (up to 50 words)
Script
What stage is it at (how many drafts?)
Your Why! Write a statement about your inspiration and motivation to tell this story (500 words max)
Has the project received any development funding or support before? Y/N - if yes, please explain
Please detail what the strengths and weaknesses of the script are from your perspective, and what your challenges are as a writer (or writers) to take it to the next stage (500 words max)
What benefit would it be to you to develop your writing skills and progress your project in a queer-led space? (250 words max)
-
Feature Writers Incubator Application Info
-
Please email your queries to eloise@proudvoicesonscreen.org
Once we have FAQs we’ll answer them here
This initiative is made possible with generous support from the NZ Film Commission