BBC Entertainment to boost regional production

“No matter how new or small the regional production company - it's the idea that matters.”
That is the message Jane Lush, Controller Entertainment Commissioning, sent out today as she launched a £100,000 fund, called ‘You Don't Need To Live In London’, which aims to boost regional production.
Successful applicants from the English Regions will benefit from funding of between £20,000 and £40,000.
The independent companies will be mentored by BBC Entertainment - with a dedicated senior entertainment executive working with them to develop and mould their idea as well as full business affairs support.
Jane Lush, said: "I'm looking for ideas with creativity and originality and they don't have to be the biggest or the grandest ideas to work for the channels - look at how successful ‘3 Non Blondes’ has been.
"I want to work with the independent sector outside the M25 to develop their ideas; I hope to unearth regional talent which would benefit hugely from a cash injection."
The scheme is backed by Pact, the UK trade association representing the commercial interests of independent feature film, television, animation and interactive media companies.
Margaret Scott, Director of Nations and Regions at Pact, said: "This is an initiative that will produce real and tangible benefits to small and medium enterprise in the English Regions looking to diversify into entertainment and comedy.
"It's an example of the BBC providing venture capital for the sector in a proactive and positive way.
"Pact is delighted to endorse this new and creative enterprise."
Companies should submit: A business plan that specifically covers its plan to expand into network entertainment; A sample of ideas/work in production; CVs of key personnel already in place; Confirmation that the company is a qualifying independent company; And evidence that the company can match the BBC Entertainment funding through other investments.
To apply to the fund, applications should be sent to Claire Evans, BBC Entertainment, by July 31 2004.
(GB)