Rome’s MIA launches new funding initiative

Rome’s MIA – Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo began its 12th edition on Monday, 19 October, introducing the European Investment Hub (EIH), a new initiative designed to connect professionals in cinema and television with public and private funding sources.

Key figures highlight industry challenges

The event, titled “European Funding Tools and Strategic Perspectives,” was introduced by Alessandro Usai, president of ANICA, and Chiara Sbarigia, president of APA. They brought together representatives from European institutions, national ministries, regional film funds, and the financial sector to discuss moving beyond established support frameworks and developing more diverse funding methods.

Participants include top European and Italian officials

Among the participants were Giuseppe Abbamonte from the European Commission, Antonino Stefanucci from the European Investment Fund, and Charlotte Appelgren from CineRegio. Italian representatives included Giorgio Carlo Brugnoni from the Ministry of Culture and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Italian Agency for Trade.

Concerns raised over potential EU funding cuts

The discussions highlighted tensions surrounding future European Union funding, with Abbamonte criticizing a proposed 30% reduction in the budget for AgoraEU, which includes Creative Europe - MEDIA, from 8.6 billion euros to 6 billion euros. This change is part of ongoing negotiations for the EU budget covering the years 2028-2034.

European Investment Hub focuses on understanding financial tools

Rather than being a newly created investment fund, the European Investment Hub functions as a forum where industry actors can better understand available financial instruments, eligibility requirements, and investment criteria. It is supported by the European Commission, EIF, CineRegio, and Eurimages.

Hub offers advisory sessions and funding discussions

The Hub’s program spans the first two days of the MIA, combining thematic roundtables, networking, and direct exchanges. It covers regional, European, and international co-production funds, equity investments, guarantees, risk-reduction tools, and production insurance, among other topics.

Italian investment fund proposal presented

On the first day, APA presented a proposal for an Italian investment fund for the audiovisual sector. The session included industry figures like Gloria Giorgianni, Mario Mauri, and Domenico Lombardi, who discussed the fund’s goals to support independent companies and improve their international competitiveness.

MIA continues with broader industry events

Directed by Gaia Tridente and promoted by ANICA and APA, the MIA runs until Friday, 23 October, with its broader program of co-production forums, project presentations, sectoral conversations, and networking events.