RESEARCH: Funding and Production

Today I have been researching exactly who would fund my documentary, and upon researching, I came across BRITDOC. Below is the connection that BRITDOC have with Channel 4, and why i believe it is relevant to my production.

"Channel 4 has been the founding partner and inspiration of BRITDOC from day one. They share the same belief in the importance of public service content to British culture and society, alongside a modern and innovative approach to problem solving.

BRITDOC are 'delighted' that in November 2011 Channel 4 announced they were renewing their partnership with them, and increasing funding by 30%. This increase means they will be able to make more and better films that will be seen all around the world, and on Channel 4 in the UK.

The Channel has an option to broadcast any of the Foundation funded films from BRITDOC's UK production fund that can work for their audiences. They view the films once completed and through this mechanism many of BRITDOC's films have been shown on Channel 4 or More4.

With Channel 4’s help, BRITDOC are continuing to seed a 'vibrant independent documentary community' from where future theatrical, TV and online documentary stars will emerge."

The website goes on to say "We give financing to support independent filmmakers making documentary projects that would not be commissioned by a UK broadcaster.  Since our inception in 2005 we have funded over 60 award winning films."

BRITDOC tend to fund independent, one-off films. They look to widen the spectrum of British documentaries being made by giving filmmakers the ability to complete passion projects that might not otherwise get made. They are keen to work with filmmakers where they can build co-productions and partnerships around films. They can come in with first funding and will assist filmmakers in securing additional finances. They also consider feature-length projects for completion funding on the basis of an early rough cut or rushes.

The above trailers are for just two of the many documentaries that BRITDOC have made. After researching the genre of these short films and documentaries they make with Channel 4's funding, I have come to realise they would be a perfect company to go into co-funding with.