Emerging Director Awards Mark 10 Years of Championing Irish Filmmaking Talent

The Institute of Creative Advertising and Design (ICAD) and Commercial Producers Ireland (CPI) have announced the launch of the 10th anniversary of the Emerging Director Awards (EDAs). The EDAs have become a cornerstone of the Irish filmmaking industry, recognising and supporting the next generation of directors, cinematographers, editors, and producers. Over the past decade, the EDAs have showcased exceptional talent and provided a platform for emerging filmmakers to gain recognition and launch successful careers. Previous winners have gone on to achieve international acclaim, including Benjamin Cleary, whose short film Stutterer won an Academy Award. The awards have also helped numerous other filmmakers gain a foothold in the industry, including Finn Keenan, Kate Dolan, and Zak Razvi. 

“The EDAs have become a cornerstone of the Irish filmmaking and commercial industry, showcasing exceptional talent and providing a vital platform for emerging filmmakers to gain recognition. It’s also a great night for everyone, both experienced and emerging, to get together and socialise” said Ross Killeen, of Motherland and the EDA Committee. “To mark its 10th anniversary, we're proud to expand the programme with valuable knowledge-sharing and educational elements, further nurturing the growth of emerging filmmakers and contributing to the continued success of the industry. The EDA’s are all about celebrating the talent we have in this country and giving them every opportunity to forge a successful career in the industry” 

The EDAs are unique in Ireland, providing the only platform specifically designed to recognise and celebrate emerging filmmakers. With eligibility limited to those with no more than five years of professional experience, the awards ensure that aspiring talents have a platform to gain visibility and recognition at a crucial stage in their careers. A unique aspect of winning an EDA is the automatic entry into the prestigious Young Directors Awards at Cannes, offering winners a chance to gain international recognition. Such defining opportunities can advance a promising filmmaker’s career while showcasing the rich creative talent base in Ireland.  

This year, with continued support from Screen Ireland, the EDAs will expand to include knowledge-sharing and educational elements, such as workshops and masterclasses led by industry experts. These initiatives will provide emerging filmmakers with valuable insights and opportunities to connect with established professionals. The 2025 Emerging Director Awards will be a day-long celebration of emerging Irish filmmaking talent, taking place on the 8th of May at the Light House Cinema. The event will feature a dynamic programme of activities, including panel discussions, film screenings, and the awards ceremony itself.  

Submissions for the 2025 EDAs are open until 25th of March, with the awards ceremony taking place on the 8th of May at the Light House Cinema. For more information or to enter the awards, visit www.edaireland.ie