‘We Create a Space Where Stories Take Shape,’ Swiss Funding Bodies Say as They Talk Money and Co-Financing at Locarno

At Locarno, Gregory Catella emphasized that SRG SSR’s primary aim is to keep co-producers satisfied. Highlighting the importance of prestige over financial stakes, Catella pointed out that their contribution is more about enhancing visibility than making a monetary impact. The focus of their co-productions is to gain international acclaim at festivals.

During the Switzerland and Co-Financing Opportunities for Independent Films panel, Catella encouraged participants to apply for the Audiovisual Pact, which has recently increased its funding to 34 million CHF ($39.2 million).

“This additional 1.5 million CHF aims to improve financing for co-productions despite rising costs,” he explained. The Pact supports up to 10 million CHF ($11.5 million) for feature films and 2 million CHF ($2.3 million) for animation, including opportunities for international co-producers, particularly in documentary series for broadcast and platforms.

Applicants should first consult the Federal Office of Culture, which offers selective and automatic funds based on past film releases and festival participation. Patrizia Pesko noted that Switzerland can only co-produce with countries that have treaties or are covered by the European Convention on co-production. Countries like Japan or China, without such agreements, cannot be recognized as official Swiss co-productions.

Media Desk Suisse provides development funding for projects with Swiss majority or minority participation. “Our annual development budget is 1.2 million CHF ($1.4 million),” said Corinna Marschall. This support, given towards the end of the development phase, does not require a theatrical release.

Marschall also discussed the Minority Swiss Co-Development Funding, offering up to 50,000 CHF ($57,670) for Swiss minority projects, particularly children’s films and animations. She stressed the importance of a connection to Switzerland and high artistic value.

Visions Sud Est, founded in 2005, focuses on films from countries with low production capacities. Madeline Robert outlined their support for production and post-production, providing up to 50,000 CHF ($57,670) and 20,000 CHF ($23,000) respectively. She emphasized the importance of applying at the right stage, with completed scripts for production and rough cuts for post-production.

Tenzin Roder from Migros Culture Percentage Story Lab highlighted the lab’s role in early-stage development for various formats, including cross-media projects. Roder stressed the need for diverse voices and experimentation in filmmaking. “Our coaching and mentoring support aim to strengthen new talents and foster innovation in a competitive industry,” she concluded.