This course is aimed at creative people from UK independent cinemas, film festivals and mixed arts venues who are interested in learning essential business skills to develop their organisation.
In the current climate of fierce competition for arts funding, this course will show you how to approach different types of funders, develop partnerships with corporate sponsors and write a business plan for your organisation.
The course will be taught through workshops delivered by fundraising and management specialists and real-life case studies of people who have raised money for their cinema or festival. The day will also provide invaluable networking opportunities on a national scale.
The course will cover:
- Fundraising tips and trends
Led by Wendy Smithers, Director, The Hub, this will be a practical session examining the current fundraising landscape and future trends, types of funding available and advice on writing a winning proposal. - Tyneside Cinema funding case study
Gillian Spry, formerly Director of Fundraising at Tyneside Cinema, will explain how she raised £6.5 million in capital funding for the cinema’s redevelopment, through methods including statutory funding, private contributions, public donations and a ‘buy a seat’ campaign. - Business planning
This session will look at the importance of having a business plan for developing an organisation and will examine key areas to consider when writing one, including priorities, resources and future direction. Led by Andy Berrow, Senior Client Service Manager, Business Link. - Building creative business partnerships
A panel discussion about the processes of researching, pitching to and maintaining good relationships with corporate sponsors from successful film exhibitors. Speakers will include Sue Lion, Managing Director, Encounters Short Film Festival.
Cost:
The price for this course is £90 + VAT (£105.75), including lunch, refreshments and networking drinks. Bursary support towards fees, travel and/or accommodation is available from various Screen Agencies and the ICO.
This project is funded by the Skillset Film Skills Fund, which is supported by the National Lottery through the UK Film Council and the film industry through the Skills Investment Fund. Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. www.skillset.org