Contemporary arts organisation and registered charity SET has announced the launch of its inaugural SET Film Festival Accelerator Programme.
Running on a flexible, hybrid basis from 15 July to 15 October 2026, the new, entirely free three-month professional development initiative and creative incubator is designed to support three selected UK-based artists and filmmakers.
“Conceived as a direct response to the challenges of the current funding landscape and the unique structural and financial obstacles faced by emerging talent across the industry, the programme aims to deepen SET’s overarching commitment to long-term artist support,” SET said.
“Over the last four years, the SET Film Festival has established itself as an international platform for experimental practices and emerging voices.
“Building on this foundation, the new accelerator initiative will offer the selected cohort bespoke curatorial support, peer exchange, and professional development sessions covering form, style, creative direction, pitching, and festival promotion.”
Participants will benefit from dedicated mentorship and connection with industry experts and guest contributors across the spheres of film production, exhibition, and distribution.
Alongside professional guidance, the cohort will receive dedicated profile spotlights across SET’s digital channels and marketing campaigns to amplify their work to broader audiences.
The programme culminates in a unique public presentation, offering filmmakers the opportunity to showcase their completed projects or programme outcomes at this year’s SET Film Festival in Peckham this November.
Applications are open to anyone currently residing in the UK with a moving image project at any stage of production or post-production.
The festival welcomes submissions across all cinematic genres, including artists’ moving image, documentary, narrative, fiction, and experimental cinema.
The deadline for applications is 30 June 2026 at 23:59 BST.
More information is available on the SET website.
