Each year, up to 20 new experienced producers are accepted into the ACE Network after completing the ACE programme of executive education. It consists of three workshops emphasising the key position and unique responsibilities of the producer throughout the whole process of making a film: development, financing, production, marketing and distribution. Experienced independent producers apply with a project in development that is suitable for co-production and aimed at the international market.

OCTOBER – CONTENT DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP
Pitching practice, individual meetings and group sessions analysing the concepts, dramaturgy and target audiences of producers’ projects; plenary sessions on managing talents and maintaining creative dialogues; discussions on marketing during the early stages of development and examining new forms and formats for audiovisual storytelling. The workshop includes an intensive course in the use of story development tools.
 
NOVEMBER – FINANCING STRATEGIES WORKSHOP
Interactive sessions exploring international financing opportunities and strategies through detailed analysis of producers’ finance plans, with input provided by high-grade professionals from across the industry. An open exchange of experience and ideas which sheds light on the evolution of co-production practices, of public and private funding schemes, and of the global marketplace in the digital age.

APRIL – BUSINESS PROSPECTS WORKSHOP
Sessions on business growth, designed to provide producers with models of sustainable company management and ways to build businesses that have real value. Group sessions and panel discussions guide the producers through keener applications of marketing techniques and diversified commercial activities.

APRIL – ACE PRODUCERS ANNUAL REUNION
Held in a different country every year over a long springtime weekend, and open to all members of the ACE Network, this event is an occasion for ACE producers to share news, knowledge, opinion and practical advice in an informal but confidential environment.  Warts-and-all case-studies, production company showcases, insider-information sessions, and more.

KNOWLEDGE OUTCOMES

Improved development, international co-production, business, entrepreneurial and management skills.