CenterFrame, the fast-growing filmmaker platform and community, has acquired the British Short Film Awards to create the biggest celebration of short films in the UK. Since its launch in 2021, the British Short Film Awards has become one of the most respected awards for shorts, with Oscar and BAFTA-level talent amongst its nominees and winners. Under CenterFrame’s stewardship, it’s set to further evolve into a launchpad for emerging filmmakers, with an annual Gala event in Central London spotlighting the talent behind the best British short films of the year.
“We’re not just acquiring an event, we’re taking on a legacy,” said Bernhard Pucher, CEO of CenterFrame. “Short films are where bold new voices are born, and with the British Short Film Awards we want to elevate the significance of shorts and give the UK’s best emerging filmmakers a platform that will showcase their talent and genuinely move their careers forward.”
“It’s been an incredible honour to help celebrate and support the work of so many talented short filmmakers over the years,” added Tommy Clarke, founder of the British Short Film Awards. “The British Short Film Awards was founded with the belief that short films deserve a spotlight of their own, and I’m proud of the platform we’ve built together. As the awards enter a new chapter under fresh ownership, I’m excited to see it continue to evolve, champion bold new voices, and inspire the next generation of storytellers.”
The 2025 edition of the awards will take place in February 2026 in Central London. It will include a new exclusive pre-awards industry gathering that will connect nominees with producers, film and TV executives and agents at a Filmmakers Lunch.
“We’re not just handing out awards,” said Nathan Haines, CenterFrame’s Co-Founder. “We’re bringing together filmmakers, producers, agents, and funders in one room—to spark real opportunity.”
With a rapidly-growing community of filmmakers in its network and a suite of industry-facing programs—from Selects to the Industry Showcase—CenterFrame is uniquely positioned to elevate the British Short Film Awards. Submissions will now run through the CenterFrame platform, with new pathways for qualification including trusted, qualifying partner festivals, curated initiatives, and career development schemes.
Beyond the ceremony, CenterFrame is building a more sustainable and career and business-oriented ecosystem. Existing sponsors and new partners from across the creative industry—including equipment brands, production firms, and legal/finance professionals—will be invited to support the event and the talent it showcases.
