Written by David Lewis on Dec 5, 2011. Posted in Incentive News

Creative England opens two new funds to support development of regional filmmaking

Creative England has opened two new schemes of Lottery funding, delegated from the BFI, to support the development of filmmaking talent in the English regions.

The Development Fund and Film Networks Fund will be key drivers in delivering Creative England’s Talent Development aims: to nurture emerging and established regional filmmaking talent by supporting development of their work; to encourage a diverse and engaging on-screen cultural identity for the English regions; to stimulate innovative creative and commercial approaches to filmmaking; and to promote the talent and creativity of the English regions to the world.

The Development Fund is inviting applications from individual writers, writer/directors and/or producers based in the English regions for the development of all types of feature films, including animation and documentary. Applications are also invited from writer/director/producer teams.  Funding is available for the costs of developing a screenplay (or the equivalent for documentaries) such as research costs, writer’s fees, script editor/developer support and script readings.

We’re targeting our Development Funds at those unique regional voices with great new stories to tell.

Funding will also be available for screenplays that are ready to be presented to potential financiers, to help with budgeting, scheduling, casting, producing teaser trailers/pilots, and other expenses associated with raising finance and generating sales and distribution interest.  The Development Fund totals GBP250,000 in its current round and applications are welcomed on a rolling basis. Awards will range from GBP2,500 to GBP25,000.

The Film Networks Fund is open to networks and organisations whose work supports and promotes filmmaking activities in the English regions.  Funding will be available for a range of eligible activity including provision of editorial and technical support for emerging talent looking to produce work, delivery of networking, screening and industry speaker events and master classes, and provision of peer-to-peer support, mentoring, training and advice. The Film Networks Fund is a fixed call with GBP150,000 to award in this round. Awards will range from GBP2,500 to GBP25,000, and the deadline for applications is 30 January 2012.

As well as distributing Lottery awards, the Talent Development team will also provide advice, brokerage and practical help to filmmakers in developing and producing their projects.

Creative England’s Head of Talent Development Chris Moll said: “We’re targeting our Development Funds at those unique regional voices with great new stories to tell, combined with the skill to drive their project forward both creatively and commercially. We’d like to hear from applicants from all around the country, so that we can reflect the real diversity that is out there in the regions."