Pitch Lab

Got an animation idea you'd love to bring to life?

The Aberdeen Animates Pitch Lab is an opportunity for emerging animators and creatives to pitch an original animation project, receive feedback from industry professionals and take the next step in developing their idea.

We're looking for exciting concepts with creative potential, strong storytelling and a clear vision for what the project could become.

The Pitch Lab will take place as part of Aberdeen Animates 2027 on 27th March 2027 at The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen.

Submission dates

Submissions open: 1st November 2026
Submission deadline: 1st January 2027

Applications must be submitted through FilmFreeway.

Who can apply?

Applicants must be aged 18 or over.
The Pitch Lab is open to individuals and teams based in Aberdeen City or Aberdeenshire, subject to the applicable residency requirements.
Applicants must be able to attend the Pitch Lab in person on 27th March 2027 at The Lemon Tree, Aberdeen.

What kind of projects are we looking for?

The Pitch Lab is for animation projects that are still in development. We're interested in ideas that have room to grow, develop and be taken further.

Projects must meet the following requirements:

Animation-led: Animation must be central to the project.
In development: The project must not already be completed.
Original: The idea must be original, and applicants must own or have the necessary rights to develop the project.
A clear creative vision: Applicants should be able to communicate their concept and what they hope to achieve with it.

Projects may be at different stages of development, from an early concept to a more developed idea that needs support to progress.

What happens next?

Following the submission deadline, applications will be reviewed by the Pitch Lab selection team.

Four finalists will be selected to pitch their projects at Aberdeen Animates 2027.

Each finalist will have:

5 minutes to pitch their project.
5 minutes for questions and feedback from the judging panel.

Finalists should be prepared to explain their idea, its creative potential and how they envision developing it further.

How will projects be assessed?

The judging panel will consider:

Originality and creativity: Is the idea distinctive and engaging?
Story and concept: Is the central idea compelling and clearly communicated?
Animation potential: Does the project make meaningful use of animation as a medium?
Development potential: Is there scope for the idea to be developed further?
Creative vision: Does the applicant demonstrate a clear understanding of what they want to create?
Pitch delivery: How effectively does the applicant communicate their idea and respond to questions?

The winner

One project will be selected as the Pitch Lab winner.

The winner will receive a development prize and mentoring support to help them take their project forward. Further details about the prize and mentoring arrangements will be announced once confirmed.

Intellectual property

Applicants retain ownership of their projects and intellectual property.

By submitting an application, you confirm that you have the necessary rights to the project and any materials included in your submission.

Submitting to the Pitch Lab does not transfer ownership of your idea or project to Aberdeen Animates.

Ready to apply?

Applications open on 1st November 2026 through FilmFreeway.

Start developing your pitch and get ready to share your idea with us!

For questions about the Pitch Lab, contact aberdeenanimates@gmail.com.