EIFF and Procam Take 2 announce commitment to supporting filmmaking talent with Short Film Pitch

EIFF has announced a brand-new partnership with Procam Take 2 that commences with EIFF 2021. Procam Take 2 are not only providing the prize for the Short Film Pitch but are also supporting EIFF Youth and Industry activity starting this year, it is expected that this will be the beginning of a long-term relationship between the two organisations.

The ‘EIFF & Procam Take 2 Short Film Pitch’ will be open to both new and emerging talent, as well as experienced filmmakers, with the winner receiving a £5,000 equipment hire voucher to use at Procam Take 2’s Scotland branches. The competition launched Tuesday 27th July and closes on EIFF Opening Night Wednesday 18th August 2021. For more details on how to apply please visit here.

As part of Procam Take 2’s extended commitment to supporting filmmaking talent in the EIFF Youth sponsorship, the leading digital cinematography and motion picture equipment rental facility will be providing professional cameras for practical filmmaking workshops, helping young people gain practical experience to enter the film industry and realise their filmmaking ambition.

The partnership has received match-funding from the Culture & Business Fund Scotland (CBFS) which is run by Arts & Business Scotland, the CBFS is a programme which brings creative projects – large and small – vividly to life.

Ken Hay, chief executive of EIFF said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Procam Take 2 on board in supporting EIFF’s Youth programme and in particular the new EIFF and Procam Take 2 Short Film Pitch. The partnership with Procam Take 2, with additional match funding from Arts and Business Scotland’s Culture and Business Fund, means that EIFF can continue to deliver against its commitment to supporting the next generation of filmmakers.”

Darryl Hewat, head of operations Scotland, Procam Take 2 said: “Having attended the festival myself for many years, I’m thrilled that we are partnering with the EIFF, a festival that celebrates creativity in film right here in Scotland. As a company, Procam Take 2 is committed to supporting and nurturing the next generation of filmmakers, so sponsoring the Youth programme seems like an excellent fit. In launching the EIFF & Procam Take 2 Short Film Pitch we hope this will inspire filmmakers at all levels to be creative and look forward to giving the winner the opportunity to turn their vision into a reality.”

David Watt, chief executive at Arts & Business Scotland said: “We are delighted that the Edinburgh International Film Festival and Procam Take 2 have partnered through The Culture & Business Fund Scotland COVID-19 Recovery & Renewal Strand to help support young people as they embark on a career in film.

“Although the past year has been tough for everyone, it has had a particularly big impact on the younger generation and those looking to start their professional journey. In normal times, young people would have been afforded opportunities to learn and engage that since the start of the pandemic, have simply not existed. By teaming up thought the CBFS COVID-19 Recovery & Renewal Strand, Procam Take 2 and the Edinburgh International Film Festival are helping to future proof our film industry for generations to come, while also supporting the transition for young people starting out in their career, as we emerge from the pandemic.

“We would encourage anyone inspired by this partnership to get in touch for more information on how their local area, arts & culture organisations and businesses, could benefit through The Culture & Business Fund Scotland COVID-19 Recovery & Renewal Strand.”

The 74th edition of EIFF runs from 18 – 25 August 2021.