Building Bridges, Backing Stories

Three of Europe’s leading documentary funders explore how they support filmmakers and foster international co-productions amid shifting landscapes in production, distribution and global collaboration.

Explore how national support bodies are helping filmmakers navigate today’s complex industry landscape. UniFrance’s Daniela Elstner, Global Screen Fund’s Denitsa Yordanova and German Films’ Simone Baumann will discuss how their organisations are fostering international visibility for local talent, supporting production and enabling cross-border collaboration. These institutions play a vital role in shaping the international documentary ecosystem. Delve into evolving strategies for coproductions, distribution and promotion, offering insight into how Europe’s leading film bodies are adapting to change while continuing to build bridges between creators, countries and audiences worldwide.

Speakers:
Daniela Elster (Managing Director of UniFrance, France)
Denitsa Yordanova (Head of UK Global Screen Fund, UK)
Simone Baumann (Managing Director of German Films, Germany)

Moderator: Uldis Cekulis (CEO and Producer at VFS FILMS, Latvia)