Short Story Film Program (SSFP) ~ Final Deadline – August 31, 2026
March 3, 2026
Script Submissions are now OPEN!
Final Deadline – August 31, 2026
CONTACT
Director at: shortstory@scriptwritersnetwork.org
AT A GLANCE
Every Entry Receives:
• Three evaluations from Producers and/or Readers
• Full short script review
• Constructive written feedback
• Educational analysis of story, character, dialogue, concept, and production feasibility
• Opportunity for production consideration
Winner Benefits Include:
• Potential short film production
• One-Year Scriptwriters Network Membership
• InkTip Pro Membership
• Producer Consultation
• Roku Channel Exposure
• Script Consultation
Final Deadline:
August 31, 2026
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.
For over 40 years, Scriptwriters Network has supported writers through education, mentorship, networking, and industry access. SSFP extends that mission by providing feedback, development opportunities, and potential production exposure.
WHAT MAKES SSFP DIFFERENT?
Unlike many competitions that focus solely on selecting winners, SSFP is designed as both a writer development and production-oriented program.
Every submitted project receives evaluations from Producers and/or Readers who review the entire script and provide constructive written feedback.
Selected projects may move beyond the page and into production consideration, offering writers an opportunity to see their stories developed for the screen.
SSFP challenges writers to balance creativity with practical filmmaking considerations, including character count, locations, production feasibility, and storytelling efficiency.
PROGRAM PROCESS
PHASE ONE – EVALUATION
Three Producers and/or Readers evaluate each submitted short script.
Writers receive three evaluations covering:
• Story Concept
• Structure
• Characterization
• Dialogue
• Production Feasibility
• Overall Impressions
• Written Comments and Feedback
PHASE TWO – UNANIMOUS SELECTION
All three evaluators must unanimously agree on a project before it advances for production consideration.
Projects receiving unanimous approval become finalist selections.
PHASE THREE – PRODUCTION CONSIDERATION
Up to two projects may be selected for development and production consideration.
Selected writers may meet virtually with Producers to discuss the project, production process, and next steps.
Scriptwriters Network reserves the right to publicize and promote the writer’s name, script title, and logline.
As an educational organization, SWN’s Short Story Film Program is designed to assist writers in strengthening their craft through constructive feedback, evaluations, and production-oriented development opportunities.
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.
Prizes are subject to change.
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.
HOW TO SUBMIT
STEP 1
Complete payment through PayPal using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal account.
STEP 2
Return to the Scriptwriters Network website.
STEP 3
Upload your script in PDF format.
STEP 4
Confirm acceptance of all competition rules and requirements.
STEP 5
Receive confirmation of successful submission via email.
Questions regarding submissions may be directed to:
shortstory@scriptwritersnetwork.org
ENTRY FEES & DEADLINES
Entries occur once per year.
FINAL DEADLINE
August 31, 2026
ENTRY FEE
Members: $40
Non-Members: $40
SSFP
Member & Non-Member Entry
$40.00
