Following a pilot iteration of the Animation Pathways Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Fund in 2022, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland (Screen Ireland) and Animation Ireland are pleased to announce that a further €100,000 has been allocated for the funding scheme in 2023.
The fund will be used to provide inclusive opportunities on animation productions for those from diverse and under-represented communities and those where access to the industry would historically be limited.
In 2022, the Animation Pathways Fund supported opportunities for Ukrainian refugees residing in Ireland seeking to transition to the animation sector. Three participants were supported on the production of Distillery Films’ Sullivan Sails, gaining work experience in project development, storyboarding, animation, design and FX. Additionally, the scheme also supported Ukrainian animation director Olha Yevtieieva to further develop her original concept Crunch Crunch Farm for Irish audiences.
Gareth Lee, Skills Manager at Screen Ireland, said:
“The continuation of the Pathways scheme for animation will support greater access to the sector for creative talent from a diverse range of backgrounds. Screen Ireland looks forward to working with Animation Ireland to create more inclusive opportunities for all.
Ronan McCabe, CEO of Animation Ireland, said:
“It has been great to have the opportunity to increase access to the animation sector for people from more diverse backgrounds and even better that this scheme is being continued. This is an important initiative and our industry will continue to strive to give voice to the traditionally under-represented.”
Applications are welcome for proposals that address the following in particular:
- Opportunities for under-represented participants wishing to transition from other sectors.
- Opportunities for those who wish to return to the Animation sector after a period of absence.
- Opportunities for refugees seeking to transition to the Animation sector.
- Gender and diversity balance in specific departments and roles where gender and diversity would historically be skewed.
- Opportunities that offer significant career advancement opportunities for participants in priority areas where significant skills gaps exist or where significant barriers to taking on this opportunity exist.
Through this scheme, producers and production companies can apply for a funding award of up to €10,000 per production/project in 2023. A higher funding award may be considered if the production is offering exceptional ED&I opportunities (subject to review by the awarding panel). More than one application per annum per producer/company is allowed, with a maximum allowance of €20,000 per annum per producer/company. Projects awarded funding must commence production before 31st December 2023.
The Animation Pathways Fund will be open throughout 2023 until the total fund is fully expended.
For more information about the Animation Pathways Fund or to make an application, please visit the dedicated webpage: Animation Pathways Fund
For any additional queries please contact: applications@animationireland.com