UK Audience Network for Film 2013-2017 FAQ

Can I discuss my ideas with someone before I make an application?

In the first instance we recommend that you read the Overview, the Guidelines and these FAQs. If, after that, you still have any questions please use the contact form and we will contact you by email or by phone at a time and a date to suit you. Where appropriate we will arrange a meeting to discuss your questions with you in person. We are likely to add your questions to these FAQs.

What information do I need to include in the application?

Please refer to the Guidelines for advice on completing the application form.

How do I check the status of my current application?

When we have received your submission, we will send you a confirmation email. Successful applicants will be notified by 1 February 2013 if you have progressed to Stage 2. We may ask for additional materials in support of your application following the Stage 1 submission.

How can I log in to my account?

You can log in to your account at any point to access in-progress or submitted applications by clicking on the following link: account login.

Would you consider a coalition of organisations as an HLO?

Yes, applications to become an HLO can be from a number of different organisations acting as a consortium, but the application must be made in the name of the lead organisation.

What will be funded through the Network?

Funding will be directed towards activity that supports the Network aims of increasing audience reach, expanding audience choice and enhancing audience understanding of and engagement with film. HLOs will be empowered to work with the BFI and their Hub partners to make decisions about how best to develop audiences and extend film choice in their area, and to prioritise projects or organisations accordingly.

Who are the strategic organisations in the Network, and what will be their role?

The BFI, with its world renowned collections and its curatorial capabilities alongside its technical and audience development expertise, is envisaged as having a vibrant and productive relationship with the UK Network.

We also see the Cinema Arts Network as an important strategic partner of the Network — their infrastructure, reach and programming capacity offer real opportunities and synergies for the Network and its audiences.*

We will also be looking to bring on board a small number of strategic organisations with a UK remit that can offer a range of services to the HLOs and the wider Network including co-ordination, programming and advice. These organisations will be supported through the UK Network with funding being made available through a targeted call for applications.

How does an organisation become part of the UK Audience Network?

Any organisation can join the Network if they are engaged in developing audiences for specialised and British independent film or if they are in a position to contribute to the Network aims.

Organisations in receipt of support from any of the BFI Audience Fund elements (e.g. Film Festivals Fund) will be expected to take an active role in the Network — participating at a level appropriate to their remit, size and scale.

In general we envisage Network members will take part in a range of activity, some of which will be smaller scale or local in its focus and some of which will be larger in ambition and part of a wider programme taking place across the UK.

Network membership in and of itself will not guarantee funding for an organisation or project.

Can commercial organisations be part of the Network?

We welcome the participation of commercial organisations that wish to contribute to the achievement of Network aims.

What are the benefits of Network membership?

Members will have priority access to Network funding, the Programming Development Fund and the Film Festivals Fund.

They will also benefit from opportunities to:

• collaborate, share ideas and exchange information.
• develop ambitious joint programming and audience development projects that would not be possible on their own.
• work with CAN and the BFI on major nationwide programmes.
• take part in UK wide initiatives with associated profile.
• draw upon the experience and expertise of other Hubs and Network members.
• influence decisions about how film funding is prioritised.
• utilise the support services of Network strategic organisations.
• benefit from sector-specific training opportunities.

Are applicants expected to confirm who their Hub partners will be at this application stage?

No, but at this stage we will ask for indications of any key members you have approached, and the nature of any discussions between you. We will ask for written support for your application to be an HLO from key organisations in your proposed Hub. Confirmed status of key members will be required if your application is progressed to Stage 2.

How soon will the Network be up and running?

We expect the HLOs to be confirmed, and Network activity to begin, during the first quarter of 2013-14.

My question has not been answered here. How do I contact you?

Please submit your query using our contact form.

*The BFI will not be allocating UK Network resources to BFI Southbank or CAN, both of which have separate funding arrangements. Hubs may choose to make a financial contribution to either organisation if for example they are delivering a joint project together.