**Applications are now closed**
Foundations for Film & TV is an intense business development programme specifically designed to address that need, focussing on the early stage demands and challenges facing content makers in a fast-changing market.
Part of the BFI-funded Creative Enterprise programme, Foundations for Film & TV will support early stage early–stage companies across Film, TV and SVOD
What does it involve?
Working with early-stage companies across Film, TV and SVOD, the programme will help build and strength the foundations of the business and give participants the skills required to optimise growth.
Foundations will be delivered through a series of intense workshops. With opportunities for networking and to hear from the financiers and commissioners making decisions. Each participant will attend 7 workshops facilitated by Course Director Angus Finney.
Companies taking part in the programme will:
- Refine their business strategy
- Get expert advice on business planning, funding and finance
- Gain confidence and insight into deal making
- Develop an audience/ market strategy for their slate
- Gain a greater understanding of revenue models, profitability and IP monetisation
- Learn directly from and build their network with proven industry leaders
- Hear from financiers and commissioners behind the decision making
Who is it for?
The programme is for early- stage Production companies working in narrative content across Film, TV or SVOD. Companies should be based in the English regions outside of London, have some proven success and be ready to take their business to the next level. To be considered for the programme, companies must:
- Have a track record in production of TV, SVOD and/ or film (scripted or documentary)
- Have at least one project that is fully financed and delivered or a slate of 3 projects at meaningful stages of development
- Be pre-revenue or have generated sales revenue of less than £100k.
- Be a Limited Company registered on Companies House or currently setting up as a Limited Production company
- Be based in the English regions outside of London
- Be committed to the long-term development of your company
Companies from Scotland and Northern Ireland can apply for a limited number of seats on this programme, made available through support from inGAME and Northern Ireland Screen. If you are based in any of the devolved administrations (Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland) please get in touch with our team at creativeenterprise@creativeengland.co.uk if you would like to apply.
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*** Applications are now closed ***
Any questions? Email our Creative Enterprise team.
Deadline for applications is extended to 14th September at Midday.
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Foundations Alumni
The Creative England workshops have had such a positive impact on myself and Oakhill Productions. It’s not just about what you learn but who you’re learning with. From the organisers and mentors from Creative England to other members of the cohort everyone has something to teach you from their own, lived experiences. And we all want to share and support each others journeys.
A producer’s life can be overwhelming in the early stages. The best part of being on the programmes is that it has given me colleagues and mentors to touch base with. Even after the workshops finished, I still feel connected and a part of something. Thanks to their support, I feel more confident with my knowledge, more focused and ready to challenge myself further and make Oakhill Productions a real standout company!
Ali Causon, Oakhill Productions
I’m so grateful to have been chosen for the Accelerate 2022 cohort. I gained important business knowledge and it also gave me the confidence in knowing that what I am doing in the industry with Inclusivity Films – a commitment to at least 50% d/Deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent cast & crew on every set – is feasible and that there are people out there who support this.
As a neurodivergent creative myself, I don’t find all spaces accessible but that wasn’t the case with the Accelerate group. I feel that with the support of Creative UK I can move forwards and make a difference in the Film & TV industry.
Sarah Leigh, Inclusivity Films
As a solopreneur, it was what I needed. I’ve had a great experience on the programme – meeting likeminded entrepreneurs and sharing knowledge and experience was so refreshing.
It can be tricky working without a co-founder as you’re in your head most of the time so speaking with my cohort was helpful. It allowed me to gain new perspective on an idea, reenforcing the knowledge I already have as well as gaining new insight into the Film and TV industry. It was a very rewarding programme for me.
Audain Thompson, Hidden Kingdom
Assessment and selection criteria
Applications will be assessed by the Creative Enterprise team. We recognise that applications may contain commercially sensitive information and all applications will be dealt with in the strictest confidence. We will typically consider the track record of your business and its management, the feasibility of your future plans, and the impact that our support might have on your company.
Applications close on 14th September at Midday. All applicants will be informed in writing by 16th September 2022 whether or not their application has been successful. Due to the volume of applications, we regret that feedback on unsuccessful applications cannot be provided. Successful applicants will be expected to commit to the programme in full by signing an offer letter and returning to Creative England.
If you have any concerns about this please contact Julia Morrish by emailing creativeenterprise@creativeengland.co.uk to discuss your specific circumstances. It is a condition of support that participants co-operate with Creative England and its partners in any PR and press activity relating to their participation in Foundations of Film & TV. Participants may also be asked to contribute to future seminars or workshops to share their experiences and knowledge with other companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you have any access or communication requirements relating to our applications and guidance, then please contact the team at creativeenterprise@creativeengland.co.uk or 0333 023 5240. Subsistence contributions are available to assist with the costs of travel and accessibility of the programme. Funds are limited and at the discretion of Creative England.
If you would like to discuss any accessibility requirements prior to applying, please get in touch with Creative Enterprise Team at creativeenterprise@creativeengland.co.uk.
