Apply now for our business lab, focussed on co-production and co-commissioning in tv
We are delighted to announce the next FOCUS Business Lab, a two-day intensive programme focussing on co-production and co-commissioning in TV, areas that are now central to how projects are financed, developed, and delivered in the UK and internationally.
WHAT IS IT?
The lab will provide practical, detailed, and current insight into how co-production and co-commissioning actually works in today’s market.
This lab comes at a critical moment for the sector. The UK television and screen sector is undergoing a period of significant structural change. While the UK remains one of the most attractive global production markets, the way projects are financed and commissioned is evolving rapidly.
According to the British Film Institute, total UK production spend across film and high-end television has exceeded £5 billion annually in recent years, with the majority of this driven by inward investment and international co-production.
At the same time, UK broadcasters are facing increased financial pressure. Advertising revenues have softened, particularly for commercial PSBs, while public service broadcasters are operating within tighter licence fee settlements and shifting audience behaviours.
This has led to:
Greater reliance on co-production and deficit financing models
Increased importance of international partnerships and distribution finance
A shift towards fewer, larger, and more globally viable projects
More complex deal structures involving multiple partners across territories
For independent producers, particularly those based outside London, these changes present both opportunities and challenges. While there is increased access to international finance and partners, there is also a need for:
Stronger commercial and legal understanding of deal-making
Clearer strategies around IP ownership and rights retention
The ability to package projects competitively for global markets
In this environment, co-production and co-commissioning are no longer niche approaches, they are increasingly central to how projects are developed, financed, and delivered.
Confirmed Speakers:
Steve Canny, Executive Producer, BBC Studios
Dave Evans, Head of Development, Balloon Entertainment
Lindsay Taggart, Company Manager, Balloon Entertainment
Daniel Donnelly, Development Executive, Balloon Entertainment
Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning for BBC Scotland, BBC Scotland
Sophie Anderson, Commercial and Business Development Manager, BBC Scotland
Others, TBC
Key themes:
The evolution of co-production models in the UK and internationally
Differences between co-production, co-financing, deficit financing and co-commissioning
Rights, IP ownership, and back-end participation
Working with international partners and distributors
Accessing global markets and funding opportunities
The role of studios vs independent producers in deal-making
Risk-sharing structures and financial planning
How to package projects for co-production (talent, attachments, market positioning)
Understanding the commissioner perspective in multi-partner deals
WHO IS IT FOR?
Scotland-based independent production companies (scripted and unscripted)
Companies at early to mid-stage growth looking to scale their projects and partnerships
Producers developing projects that may require multi-partner financing models
Companies seeking to access UK-wide and international markets
Producers who want to strengthen their commercial and strategic understanding of deal-making
While the lab is open to a range of experience levels, it will be particularly valuable for companies who:
Have projects in development or early packaging stages
Are beginning to explore co-production opportunities
Want to build more sustainable, scalable business models
WHEN AND WHERE?
The lab wil take place on Tuesday 26 & Wednesday 27 May, 2026. These two days will be held in person at Film City Glasgow, 401 Govan Road, Glasgow G51 2QJ.
This is a two-day event, running full days, with a short networking reception following the final session each day. A detailed schedule will be shared with selected participants in advance.
If you have any access requirements, please contact us in advance to discuss these: hello@filmcityfutures.com
Applications & Fees:
Priority will be given to Scottish production companies with a track record in making content for the screen. All participants must complete and submit an application form.
Attendance Fee: £150
Applications Close: 5pm, 21st May 2026
Places are limited and we strongly encourage early applications.
HOW TO APPLY:
Companies must complete a short application form at the link below. The deadline for applications is Thursday 21st May at 5pm.
Please also complete a short equal opportunities monitoring form.
For any questions regarding the business lab or if you need this information in a different format for accessibility reasons, please email events@filmcityfutures.com