Locarno Film Festival Introduces Locarno Investment Community

The Locarno Film Festival is excited to announce a groundbreaking initiative through its industry program, Locarno Pro. This new endeavor, known as the Locarno Investment Community, aims to bridge the gap between independent film financiers and the vibrant European film industry.

Connecting Financiers and Creative Talent

Set to occur from August 7 to 10, the inaugural edition of the Locarno Investment Community will provide a specialized professional track within Locarno Pro. This initiative will seamlessly incorporate film financiers into crucial industry events and networking activities, granting them access to the festival’s expansive program and a diverse array of creatives.

Welcoming New and Experienced Funders

According to the organizers of Locarno Pro, “The Locarno Investment Community will welcome both seasoned funders looking to expand their reach within the European film landscape and newcomers eager to support independent cinema.” This initiative will enable financiers to actively engage with both emerging and established filmmakers, explore innovative funding models, and make valuable contributions to the growth of independent cinema.

A Commitment to Creativity and Innovation

Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director of the Locarno Film Festival, emphasized the festival’s ongoing dedication to fostering independent voices amid evolving global distribution models: “As one of the key A festivals, Locarno is fully committed to generating new spaces where creativity is welcomed and nurtured.” He further noted that the future of cinema relies on the ability to devise new business models and production tools that look toward innovation.

Expanding Pathways to Investment

Markus Duffner, the director of Locarno Pro, highlighted the program’s history of nurturing talent, referencing recent success stories like Flow, an Oscar and Golden Globe-winning animated film, and All We Imagine as Light, the Cannes Grand Jury Prize winner. By integrating the Locarno Investment Community into the existing Locarno Pro framework, the festival aims to broaden its network and open up new funding avenues.

Long-Term Vision for Independent Filmmaking

Duffner elaborated on the initiative’s long-term goals, stating, “Our vision is to attract a diverse group of film funders from the U.S., Europe, and Switzerland, ensuring sustained engagement and investment in independent filmmaking.”

Fostering Diverse Stories in a Global Market

“The global film market has shifted, and to ensure its evolution, we need new financing pathways—models that serve both filmmakers and funders,” remarked Oxbelly’s executive director. In a world of increasing divisiveness, American film financiers and philanthropists are recognizing the value of supporting diverse independent voices. Their continued involvement in Europe introduces valuable practices from the American independent film scene into the rapidly changing European context.

For more details, please visit the Hollywood Reporter.