Screen Ireland is looking for fresh and exciting voices for their flagship screenwriting talent scheme, Spotlight.

The Spotlight scheme is an opportunity for new writers to develop a project under the guidance and mentorship of leading figures in the industry at the onset of their writing career. No previous experience is required to apply.

The 2022 scheme will run in smaller, themed rounds showcasing specific creative disciplines, genres and formats. Applications for the TV comedy round are now open.

The deadline for submissions to Spotlight 2022: TV Comedy will be at 1pm on Monday, 24th of January, 2022.

Applicants for this round should have a demonstrable background in comedy and/or an interest in the genre (stand-up, radio, short-film, literature, and digital content) and a strong idea for a TV pilot.

The organisation strongly encourages applications from a diverse range of voices, particularly those from minority ethnic groups currently underrepresented in the screen industry in Ireland. Additionally, they encourage applicants that have never applied to Screen Ireland and have no previous writing credits.

“A key objective in Screen Ireland’s new strategic plan, Building For A Creative Future, is the support and development of new and emerging creative talent, emphasising voices that represent the full diversity of modern Irish cultural life”, Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive of Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, said.

“We are delighted to launch this new iteration of Spotlight, and to discover the next generation of Irish comedy screenwriters with the scheme.”

Up to ten participants will be selected to develop a bible and pilot episode for a 30-minute TV comedy or comedy-drama series. The selected applicants will then work alongside industry professionals and script editors for the duration of the programme. Funding of €12,000 (£10,000) for an individual and €14,300 (£12,000) for teams of two or more will be available.

The new writers will take part in a structured programme, partnered with the newly established National Talent Academy for Film and Television. The programme will include a series of virtual webinars, masterclasses, and an industry networking event.

Mentors and contributors involved with the programme will include the screenwriters and producers of ITV’s Holding, Dominic Treadwell-Collins and Karen Cogan, and writer/director team Mike Ahern and Enda Loughman from Extra Ordinary.

More contributing industry leads will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

You can visit Screen Ireland's website to apply.