From London to Leeds: Regional Film Funds for Your UK Film Production

The UK film industry is thriving, and while London often steals the spotlight, regional film funds across the country are playing a pivotal role in supporting filmmakers. Whether you're shooting in the bustling streets of Manchester, the scenic landscapes of Scotland, or the historic charm of Yorkshire, regional film funds can provide the financial boost and local expertise your project needs. In this blog, we’ll explore how to access these funds and why they’re a game-changer for UK film productions.

What Are Regional Film Funds?

Regional film funds are financial incentives and support schemes offered by local councils, screen agencies, and cultural organizations to attract film productions to their areas. These funds not only provide monetary support but also offer resources like location scouting, crew connections, and logistical assistance.

Why Tap into Regional Film Funds?

1. Financial Support: Many regional funds offer grants, rebates, or tax relief to help offset production costs.

2. Local Expertise: Access to regional film offices can simplify permits, location scouting, and hiring local crew.

3. Economic Impact: Filming in regional areas often boosts local economies, making councils more eager to support your project.

4. Unique Locations: From coastal towns to urban hubs, regional funds open doors to diverse and often underutilized filming locations.

Key Regional Film Funds in the UK

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most prominent regional film funds and how to access them:

1. Creative England

   • Coverage: Supports feature films and high-end TV drama productions across England, excluding London.

   • Offerings: Funding, location support, and networking opportunities.

   • How to Apply: Visit Creative England’s Production Fund for detailed information on application processes and eligibility criteria.

     Note: The Production Fund has supported award-winning films such as "White Riot," "Calibre," and "God’s Own Country."

2. Screen Scotland

   • Coverage: Supports film and TV productions across Scotland.

   • Offerings: Funding, location scouting, and crew databases.

   • How to Apply: Check out Screen Scotland’s funding page for application guidelines.

3. Northern Ireland Screen

   • Coverage: Focused on Northern Ireland.

   • Offerings: Financial support, production advice, and access to studios like Titanic Studios.

   • How to Apply: Visit Northern Ireland Screen’s funding page for more information.

4. Film London

   • Coverage: Specifically for projects in London.

   • Offerings: Funding, location support, and training programs.

   • How to Apply: Explore Film London’s funding opportunities.

5. Yorkshire Content Fund

   • Coverage: Supports productions in Yorkshire.

   • Offerings: Investment in feature films, TV dramas, and documentaries.

   • How to Apply: Visit Screen Yorkshire’s website for details.

6. Wales Screen

   • Coverage: Focused on Wales.

   • Offerings: Funding, location support, and access to studios like Pinewood Studios Wales.

   • How to Apply: Check out Wales Screen’s funding page for more information.

Creative UK Regional Support Programmes

Creative UK offers a range of regional growth programmes across England, each tailored to support creative businesses and freelancers in specific areas. Here's an overview of the available programmes:

1. North East Create Growth Programme

• Coverage: Available to creative businesses in Newcastle, Gateshead, North Tyneside, Northumberland, County Durham, Sunderland, and South Tyneside.

• Offerings: Provides a 6-9 month tailored investment readiness support and mentoring programme, small grants, business planning support, and access to equity and debt investment up to £150,000.

• How to Apply: Visit the North East Create Growth Programme page for application details.

2. West Midlands Create Growth Programme

• Coverage: Designed for creative businesses within the West Midlands Combined Authority area.

• Offerings: Offers support to develop skills for securing investment, tailored to various creative disciplines.

• How to Apply: Details are available on the West Midlands Create Growth Programme page.

3. South East Create Growth Programme

• Coverage: Supports creative businesses within Essex, Kent, and Sussex.

• Offerings: Provides support and investment to help businesses grow and turn innovative ideas into leading enterprises.

• How to Apply: More information can be found on the Create South East website.

4. Devon Create Growth Programme

• Coverage: Caters to creative businesses based in Devon.

• Offerings: Supports skill development to secure investment, tailored to the needs of different creative disciplines.

• How to Apply: Visit the Devon Create Growth Programme page for more details.

5. Cornwall Create Growth Programme

• Coverage: Focused on creative businesses operating in Cornwall.

• Offerings: Provides support to develop skills necessary for securing investment, tailored to various creative sectors.

• How to Apply: Application information is available on the Cornwall Create Growth Programme page.

These programmes are designed to foster growth and sustainability in the UK's creative industries by providing region-specific support and investment opportunities.

Tips for Applying to Regional Film Funds

1. Research Thoroughly: Each fund has specific eligibility criteria and application processes. Make sure your project aligns with their goals.

2. Highlight Local Impact: Emphasize how your production will benefit the local economy and community.

3. Prepare a Strong Proposal: Include a detailed budget, script, and production timeline to showcase your project’s viability.

4. Network with Local Film Offices: Building relationships with regional film offices can open doors to additional resources and support.

Regional Film Funds: A Game-Changer for UK Filmmakers

Regional film funds are an invaluable resource for UK filmmakers, offering financial support, local expertise, and access to stunning locations. By tapping into these funds, you can bring your creative vision to life while contributing to the growth of the UK’s vibrant film industry. So, whether you’re filming in the heart of London or the rolling hills of Yorkshire, don’t overlook the power of regional support.