Scriptwriters Network's Short Story Film Program (SSFP)

Objective

HELPING WRITERS BRING STORIES TO THE SCREEN

The Short Story Film Program (SSFP) is Scriptwriters Network’s screenplay-to-production program designed to help writers develop compelling short-form stories while providing a pathway toward possible production.

Built upon Scriptwriters Network’s Creative Writing Challenges and educational programs, SSFP encourages writers to strengthen their storytelling skills while creating short projects designed for production consideration.

Deadline/Entry Fees

For many writers, the most valuable part of SSFP is not simply competing—it is receiving meaningful feedback, developing production-minded storytelling skills, and gaining an opportunity to see their work considered for the screen.

Notification: Middle/end of January 2027.

Eligibility

Rules

ELIGIBILITY

• Open to Scriptwriters Network members and non-members
• Entrants must be 18 years of age or older
• International entries are welcome
• Scripts must be original, unproduced, and un-optioned
• Scripts should be registered with the Writers Guild of America and/or U.S. Copyright Office

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Short screenplay format only
• Maximum script length: 20 pages
• One additional Required Information Page permitted
• Maximum total submission length: 21 pages
• PDF format only
• English language only
• Industry-standard formatting required
• Original projects inspired by Scriptwriters Network Creative Writing Challenges are eligible

Required Information Page

Must include:

• Script Title
• Logline
• Challenge month(s) used, if applicable
• Words and/or sentence(s) incorporated from SWN Challenges
• Corresponding page references

Anonymity Requirements

• Do NOT place your name or contact information anywhere on the script
• Personal information must only appear on the entry form
• Scripts remain anonymous during evaluation

Additional Requirements

• Multiple entries are permitted
• Separate entry fee and submission required for each project

Failure to follow submission requirements may result in disqualification.

Awards

PRIZES & BENEFITS

SSFP winners receive educational, professional development, and production opportunities.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• One-year Scriptwriters Network membership or membership renewal
• One-on-one consultation with Melessa Y. Sargent
• Career and script development guidance

INDUSTRY EXPOSURE

• Complimentary 4-Month InkTip Pro Membership
• Social media promotion
• Recognition through Scriptwriters Network platforms

PRODUCTION OPPORTUNITIES

• Up to two winning projects may be selected for production consideration
• Virtual meeting with Producers
• Writer credit remains attached to the project
• Opportunity for completed projects to be streamed through SWN partner platforms and Roku distribution opportunities
• Additional completed projects may also be considered for Roku Channel programming

BONUS OPPORTUNITY

Writers who incorporate words and sentences from previous Scriptwriters Network Creative Writing Challenges may be eligible for additional recognition and consultation opportunities.