New £4M boost to film research in UK

The BFI this week announced its new Film Research & Statistics Fund, supported by £4 million of Lottery funding until 2017. Up to date research and knowledge is crucial to future-proofing UK film and informing the development of new business models and well informed cultural practice that will help support the continued success of the sector. The new fund is an uplift in excess of £2.5m on previous funding available, and will see an increase in the quality and impact of film research, knowledge and analysis, which will be published in new and innovative ways for the benefit of the film industry, policy-makers, academia and the general public.

On the occasion, Tim Cagney, Deputy CEO of the BFI, commented, “This is an exciting step forward which will herald a step change in the level of research and statistics available for the entire film sector. We’re looking for innovation, partnership and expertise. Our substantial investment in this vital area, alongside additional funding from the successful partner organisation, will increase the level of robust information and data available and provide a crucial evidence base for film policy-makers and industry. Today’s announcement further demonstrates the BFI’s steadfast commitment to delivering on Film Forever and addressing the recommendations of the Government’s Film Policy Review.”

The successful applicant will plan, design and implement a research and statistics programme for film through to the end of March 2017, and will boost the BFI Lottery funding by committing partnership funding of at least 20% in the first year, with an increase in subsequent years.The BFI is looking for an applicant to: deliver a research programme that offers excellent value for money and addresses the strategic priorities set out in Film Forever; deliver the core outputs of the BFI’s RSU, including the BFI Statistical Yearbook and the BFI’s official statistical releases on UK film; and ensure findings are widely available for the benefit of all.

The closing date for applications is 25 November 2013. More information, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines and forms, can be found at www.bfi.org.uk/researchfund