Direct Distribution

About the Funding

Direct Distribution Funding is available for Irish producers to help with the costs of a theatrical release in Ireland (including Northern Ireland) for feature films already in receipt of Screen Ireland Production Funding or Completion Funding that have been unable to secure suitable theatrical distribution by a bona fide Irish distribution company.

The funding is structured as a limited recourse loan, recoverable from theatrical revenues, but not revenues derived from DVD, VOD and TV exploitation. Screen Ireland will require full approval over all incurred costs.

It is a key principle of this support that the marketing campaign is targeted, efficient and where applicable, utilises the expertise of key partners in the release; such as exhibitors, distribution networks, and experienced marketing and communication agencies.

Direct Distribution funding is capped at 90% of the total eligible distribution budget, up to a maximum amount of €20,000.

The producer is expected to take responsibility for the preparation of the film for the theatrical release in the Irish market, and for its physical distribution. Meaningful consultation with Screen Ireland is required through all stages of the release.

The following costs are eligible for Direct Distribution support:

• Costs of DCPs
• Trailer design and creation, if not already covered by production
• Creative and production costs of key art, posters, and advertising
• IFCO Certification Costs 
• Media space costs
• Marketing, publicity and promotional costs
• PR fees for third party experts
• Digital marketing materials
• Box office reporting costs: Box office reporting is due every Monday throughout the film release. This must be completed using industry standard box office reporting i.e. Comscore
• Accessibility costs: the creation of materials to allow and enhance accessibility to all audiences including those with a disability

The following costs are ineligible for Direct Distribution support:

• Company overheads 
• Alcohol
• Catering 
• Gifts
• Fuel, mileage, road tolls, parking
• Taxis (except for talent when necessary)
• In house fees for specialist areas i.e. PR

Criteria

A decision by Screen Ireland to assist the release of a qualifying film will be predicated on the following:

• A positive assessment of the producer's release plan and overall distribution budget
• A commitment from an at least one exhibitor to screen the film for at least one week
• Evidence of interest from further suitable venues to screen the film
• Prior exposure at an Irish Film Festival
• Evidence of a positive critical and/or audience reaction from a screening at an Irish or International Film Festival

Who Can Apply

Screen Ireland Direct Distribution funding is available to production companies established in the Republic of Ireland which are planning to release a qualifying film theatrically in Ireland (including Northern Ireland). 

Qualifying films for the purposes of this scheme are full-length feature films (fiction, animation or documentary) that are already in receipt of Screen Ireland Production or Completion funding.

Screen Ireland can contract only with companies incorporated in the Republic of Ireland.

Making an Application

Applications can be made online using the 'Make an Application' button on this page. Applications which do not meet the criteria set out in these guidelines will be automatically withdrawn.

The application deadlines for 2026 can be found in the Production Funding Guidelines and in the left sidebar on this page. 

Screen Ireland’s Head of Audiences, Emma Scott must be consulted prior to making an application. A copy of the film must be made available to the Head of Audiences prior to making an application.

If you wish to make an application for funding by post, contact 091 561 398 for the relevant application form.
Please note that the application portal closes at 1pm on the day of the application deadline.

This page was last updated on 02.03.2026.