Following a very productive meeting with SEDA (Small Business Development Agency), the Cape Film Commission (CFC) has established a working partnership with the Western Cape branch of SEDA.
According to CFC CEO Dennis Lillie the partnership will focus specifically on the business development needs of the local film industry.
Lillie continues: “SEDA is supported by the Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) and offers assistance and support to small businesses. CFC members will be able to apply for assistance in gaining access to opportunities for business establishment and guidance support.
“We believe that one of the key elements of the SEDA initiatives is their support in the creation of cooperatives. These are collectives whereby a number of film specialists / creatives (5+ ) can come together to create a “primary’ cooperative with the specific purpose of business advancement. A group of cooperatives can then group together and create a secondary cooperative which would allow groups of cooperatives to pitch for larger projects.’
The cooperatives, once established, will be able to submit to the CFC for consideration for inclusion into the CFC trade missions in partnership with the DTI and be able to access some of the more significant opportunities that filter through the CFC. SEDA offers free support in the development of qualifying cooperatives.
Additionally SEDA offers other schemes for business training including Entrepreneurship, Finance, Market Research, Business Planning and many more business processes. Many of these initiatives are free of charge if applicants fit the qualifying requirements.
SEDA has requested that any person involved in the film industry requiring further information on these schemes to contact the CFC at info@capefilmcommission.co.za.
Applications are open to students and professionals.
Lillie continues: “We would suggest that potential cooperatives make themselves known to the CFC, likewise individuals interested in forming a cooperative or requiring other business advice assistance. We can link you into likeminded individuals wanting to search for “cooperative’ partners.
“Please note that in order to qualify for assistance under this proposal, you will need to be registered as a member of the CFC through info@capefilmcommission.co.za.
“Once we have collated interest, we will sit with SEDA and structure a series of industry presentations from SEDA and CFC. Following the presentations, we will then work to assist you with your applications ensuring you are targeting the most appropriate initiative for your business needs.
“As the presentation(s) can only cater for a capacity of 35, we are anticipating several taking place over the coming months. Therefore please ensure that you are also applying with your specific partners if you wish to attend the presentations as cooperatives.’
Applications are open until the close of business on 31 August 2012.
