The Iris Prize, Cardiff's international gay and lesbian short film prize, has made a call for submissions for their sixth annual competition.

The Welsh festival and its prize are open to any films which are by, for, about or of interest to gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex audiences and have been completed two years prior to the deadline.

Berwyn Rowlands, founder of the Iris Prize says: 'The Iris Prize is the only LGBT short film prize in the world, valued at £25,000, which allows the winner to make a new film.

'Iris is more than just a trophy that gathers dust or a certificate that yellows on the wall. Iris is what film makers need – funding, support and guidance.'

The Iris Prize (which gets its name from the Greek goddess of the rainbow) is presented during the Iris Prize Festival in Cardiff, Wales. The event includes screenings of all 30 short films competing for the prize alongside new feature films, panel sessions and parties.

Previous winners of the Iris Prize include Brazilian filmmaker Daniel Ribeiro with his short film I Don't Want To Go Back Alone (Eu Não Quero Voltar Sozinho) and US director Dee Rees for Pariah.

'Iris is interested in sharing stories about the gay experience,' continues Rowlands.

'Iris is passionate about film and its capacity to tell stories through a powerful script, masterful directing, convincing acting, editing, sound and music. Iris is not about campaigning however she can be a powerful advocate for change.'

Full terms and conditions for applicants can be found on the Iris Prize website.