We are a film and media organisation dedicated to showcasing and promoting LGBTQ+ stories, aiming to expand their reach and impact. Our organisation is driving a range of exciting projects designed to entertain, educate, and inspire.
At the heart of our initiatives is the annual film festival, a highly anticipated event that celebrates the very best in queer cinema. With a diverse selection of films from around the world, Iris is home to the world’s largest LGBTQ+ short film prize – the coveted £40,000 Iris Prize. Supported by the Michael Bishop Foundation, the prize allows the winner to make their next LGBTQ+ short film here in Wales.
We are proud to have a valuable partnership with Film4, which enables us to showcase our Best British programme of short films to a massive viewership of over a million. Following the initial broadcast on Channel 4, all 15 shortlisted Best British films will be promptly available available for streaming on at channel4.com after the main festival.
With Iris on the Move, our UK-wide touring program, we take our Best of Iris films on the road after the annual festival. Screenings have taken place across the UK including cities such as Bangor, Belfast, Bournemouth, Liverpool, Manchester, Plymouth, and more. Together, we ensure that these powerful films reach diverse communities far and wide.
The Iris Prize Documentary Film Fund is excited to present its second iteration, aimed at promoting and supporting emerging documentary and factual film talent from Wales. This initiative is designed to nurture local talent and bring compelling UK stories to a global audience through OUTtv’s extensive network.
Originally a partnership between Iris Prize, OUT Media Group, Vancouver and Aberystwyth University the fund has now partnered with University of South Wales as the focus shifts to support the development of Wales-based talent.
The Iris Prize Fellowship is presented in recognition of individuals who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the UK film industry, with a particular emphasis on championing LGBTQ+ stories and voices.
Join us on this remarkable journey as we continue to champion LGBTQ+ stories, celebrate diversity, and create meaningful connections through the power of film and media. Support Iris by becoming a Member which also provides exclusive benefits throughout the year!
Membership: £25 (valid for 1 year)
Iris Prize are thrilled to announce that Pink Portraits 2026 will be in partnership with BBC Cymru Wales and Ffotogallery.
By offering the Iris Prize which – at £40,000 – is the world’s largest LGBTQ+ short film prize, Iris supports the development of up and coming filmmaking talent. Each year, the winning filmmaker of the coveted Iris Prize is invited back to the UK to make a new film with the support of the Iris Prize team.
Our community work, funded by the generous support of the Lottery Community Fund, has resulted in the creation of 50 impactful short films. We also run community outreach projects in Wales & the UK throughout the year.
Iris Education is a project funded by Ffilm Cymru Wales which allows the Iris team to work with pupils from schools across Wales to tackle homophobic bullying.
Discover Our Patrons! Learn about the inspiring individuals who support the Iris Prize Festival, led by Tom Abell, Chair of Iris Prize Outreach Limited.
