U.K. Unveils $100 Million “Screen Growth Package” for Film and TV, $200 Million Creative Places Fund

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Over the weekend, the U.K. government revealed a £75 million ($100 million) “Screen Development Plan” aimed at supporting the film and television industries. The Labour Party government led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer is emphasizing potential growth in this sector as part of their efforts to stimulate overall economic development.

The “increased financial support for the United Kingdom’s exceptional film and television industry … is a key component of the upcoming Creative Industries Sector Strategy, aimed at elevating the U.K.’s position as a world-leading creative force by 2035,” it was stated.

A key aim is not only to advance the British film and television sectors, but also to provide opportunities for upcoming talents from diverse backdrops, thereby solidifying our status as a global powerhouse in production. This initiative encompasses aid for innovative technologies such as augmented reality and motion capture.

Essential aspects of the strategic financing plan involve:
1. Increasing the U.K. Global Screen Fund to £18 million ($24 million) each year from 2026 to 2029, with the purpose of fostering international business opportunities, facilitating co-productions, and promoting independent U.K. screen content on a global scale.
2. Allocating £10 million ($13.5 million) towards expanding the National Film and Television School’s main campus in Beaconsfield.
3. Securing an additional £11 million ($14.8 million) in investment from industrial partners and private supporters, such as The Walt Disney Company, the Dana and Albert R. Broccoli Foundation, and Sky, to support these efforts. This extra funding will be used for modernizing school facilities, ensuring they are fully accessible for students with disabilities, and educating around 2,000 new trainees and apprentices over the next ten years. The ultimate aim is to bring the school up-to-date and cater to a larger number of aspiring filmmakers.

The government additionally announced its intention to establish a more extensive BFI Film Academy, aiming to create opportunities for individuals from underrepresented groups. This expansion will offer practical filmmaking experiences and specialized training for young people aged between 16 and 25.

Furthermore, it promised to bolster the U.K.’s global allure by sustaining backing for the esteemed BFI London Film Festival and financing for the British Film Commission, aiming to bring in additional investments.

A £25 million investment in companies developing the next wave of augmented reality and motion capture technology, as seen in shows like Wicked, A Picture of Dorian Gray, and Those About to Die, is additionally included in their plans.

As a gamer, I’m excited about the additional perks! The government has announced a new £150 million ($200 million) Creative Places Growth Fund. This fund is aimed at key cities like Manchester, Bristol, Birmingham, and Sunderland. It gives local leaders the power to foster growth in regional screen agencies and production funds. This move aims to enhance our film and TV industries nationwide!

All in all, the goal is to protect and expand the strength of the British creative sector.

Speaking about Barbie, Killing Eve, Adolescence, and Saltburn, among others, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said, “The U.K. has an impressive history of creating award-winning films and pioneering TV shows that are loved by millions at home and globally.” However, she added, “I want us to push beyond these achievements and establish the U.K. as the leading destination for film and television production.” To achieve this goal, she introduced a groundbreaking Sector Plan, which prioritizes the creative industries in our economic growth strategy and is essential for making this ambition a reality.

The comprehensive plan for the Creative Industries Sector is set to be released within the coming week, aligning with the government’s Industrial Strategy. This strategy recognizes the film and television industry, in addition to music, video games, and advertising, as rapidly expanding segments.

The government’s strategy aims to establish a framework for action to bolster public service media and the broader television industry, leveraging the Media Act and Ofcom’s upcoming review of public service media scheduled for this summer. Additionally, the BBC Charter Review is set to commence later in the year, with the goal of ensuring the BBC thrives well into the future.

Big names from the film and TV sector lauded the Screen Growth Package.

Ben Roberts, CEO of the British Film Institute, expressed satisfaction as the government acknowledges the significant role our top-tier film industries play in fueling regional development and contributing billions to the U.K.’s economy. Moreover, he highlighted that the BFI plays a crucial part in this achievement, particularly through the BFI Film Academy, which provides opportunities for young individuals from underprivileged backgrounds.

Barbara Broccoli from EON Productions expressed her excitement about the aid given to the National Film and Television School. She particularly noted that this investment would concentrate on providing essential assistance for individuals with disabilities, as the NFTS is a renowned institution that has nurtured many talented professionals in our industry.

Cecile Frot-Coutaz, head of Sky Studios and content chief for Sky, stated: “The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is crucial in nurturing Britain’s creative abilities. Our funding demonstrates our dedication to fostering talent and boosting the industry, and we look forward to watching future students reap the rewards of the school’s exceptional achievements.

As a gamer, I’m thrilled to see the government acknowledging the significance of the gaming, film, and TV sector in their Industrial Strategy. Moreover, it’s heartening to know that institutions like the National Film and Television School (NFTS) are instrumental in nurturing the future pool of exceptional British creative talent in our industry.

Jon Wardle, head of the National Film and Television School, underscored that the tangible effects of the implemented sector strategy will be experienced through the school’s increased capacity to nurture top-tier, diverse talent. This, in turn, will stimulate growth in an area where the U.K. stands as a world leader. In the face of difficulties for the creative sectors, the government’s backing is not only appreciated but also seen as a strategic move.

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2025-06-21 02:25