Candle & Bell has been selected for the prestigious PACT Future North East scheme. Run by Pact, the UK screen sector trade body representing and supporting independent production companies, the scheme is run in partnership with North East Screen.

Future North East is especially designed to help independent production companies in the North East, grow as global businesses by providing tailored leadership and development support. In total, 10 production companies in the North East were selected to take part on the two year program.

Commenting on the successful companies, Lisa Laws, North East Screen’s Head of Talent and Business Development, said:

“The ten chosen companies have already grabbed attention from broadcasters, distributors and potential co-producers. Between them they present a diverse, active slate, and a real desire to grow inclusive companies that deliver global screen content across a range of platforms to current and future markets.

“Future North East builds on North East Screen’s working relationship with Pact, and is going to energise and connect these companies to experts that will enable them to move to the next level.

“We all share a common goal of making the North East a place where sustainable, world class film and TV companies thrive. What makes this a very special group is that they are all backing each other for success and supporting one another to make a difference making sure our region a great place for talent to live and work.”

Pact’s Managing Director of Business Development & Global Strategy, Dawn McCarthy-Simpson MBE, said:

“It’s great to see such talent coming through the North East and a good sign for the future of the British screen sector. Well done to the successful applicants and we look forward to working with them over the next two years to help them develop their businesses.”

Maria Caruana Galizia, Founder and Managing Director at Candle & Bell said:

“I’m delighted to be part of Future North East. It’s a really exciting time for Candle & Bell as well as the wider film and tv industry in the region, and it’s great to have the support from PACT and North East Screen as we look to grow as a company. The entire cohort of producers on Future NE are all incredibly talented and experienced, and we’re thrilled to be part of the scheme.”