Evaluation of the Film Fund
The British Film Institute (BFI) commissioned Alma Economics to conduct an independent evaluation of the BFI National Lottery Film Fund covering the period 2012-2022. The Film Fund is an initiative funded by the National Lottery and administered by the BFI since 2011, following the abolition of the UK Film Council. Its primary objective is to develop the next generation of filmmakers by providing support at early stages of their career.
Our study assessed the extent to which the Film Fund has achieved its objectives, and how it has contributed to the independent film sector. Its role in the value chain and in the wider UK screen sector ecosystem was also examined. We designed and carried out an evaluation assessing the effectiveness of key processes and measuring the costs and benefits generated by the Film Fund in key areas of impact – including industry, cultural and economic outcomes.
We used a mixed-methods approach, allowing us to generate qualitative and quantitative insights. The key stages in our approach included: (i) collecting and analysing Film Fund monitoring data, (ii) a desk-based review of key literature, (iii) interviews with Film Fund personnel and key industry stakeholders, (iv) development of a logic model for the Film Fund and sub-funds, (v) an online survey of successful and unsuccessful applicants, and (vi) economic impact modelling.
Regarding the process evaluation, our findings suggested that the application process could be simplified. Several stakeholders expressed the need for a more accessible process and hands-on support, especially for filmmakers without experience. Applicants also highlighted the importance of receiving the outcomes of their applications within the designated timeframes, accompanied with constructive feedback.
The non-financial support provided to beneficiaries was highly appreciated by most stakeholders. Although some beneficiaries might prefer only financial support with minimum involvement, less experienced beneficiaries welcomed other forms of support such as mentoring, advice and editorial guidance.
As for the impact evaluation findings, it was widely acknowledged that the Film Fund underpins the UK’s film and television industries through developing the skills and progressing the careers of filmmakers. Supported projects were viewed as platforms for skills development, allowing filmmakers to develop creatively and to expand their networks.
The cultural impact of the Film Fund is also considerable. Over the 10-year period examined, the supported projects accrued 654 nominations and earned 204 awards in total. Additionally, the Fund performs particularly well at promoting diversity on the basis of ethnicity and gender, although there is room for improvement in doing the same on the basis of disability and socio-economic backgrounds.
In terms of economic impact, the Film Fund is estimated to have created close to £400m of direct Gross Value Added for the UK economy and around 700 direct full-time equivalent jobs. These estimations are somewhat conservative and do not include the indirect cultural and industry benefits generated.
Our recommendations include a range of potential actions including:
Refining and streamlining the application process.
Prompt provision of feedback on applications, and greater clarity on requirements and assessment criteria.
Continuing and enhancing the provisions for non-financial support.
Regular evaluations of the Film Fund and implementing a comprehensive data monitoring policy.
Promoting diversity more widely by providing additional support to applicants from groups that remain underrepresented.
Our findings and recommendations will inform the new five-year strategic plan of the BFI. This has been the first evaluation of the Film Fund since its inception, and our report will be used as a reference and a departure point for future evaluations.
Download the full report here.