The BFI Film Audience Network is a unique collaboration of eight Film Hubs managed by leading film organisations across the UK.
The BFI Film Audience Network (BFI FAN) aims to ensure the greatest choice of film is available for everyone across the whole of the UK. Supported by National Lottery funding, it is a unique collaboration of eight Film Hubs, managed by leading film organisations and venues strategically placed around the country. Established in 2012, it now has over 1,800 members, including cinemas, festivals, multi-arts venues, community cinemas and film archives, and is at the heart of the BFI’s strategy to build larger and more diverse audiences for UK and international film and a thriving cinema exhibition sector.
Film Hubs are regional and national centres of expertise and support that connect cinemas, festivals and creative practitioners so that people can access a broader range of cinema across the UK. They use their local knowledge and relationships to deliver responsive support to develop the confidence, ambition and reach of film exhibitors in the nations and regions.
BFI Film Audience Network national projects
The BFI Film Audience Network also runs a range of UK-wide projects to strengthen the exhibition sector and develop greater and more diverse audiences for independent cinema all over the UK. National projects include industry events and initiatives to widen access and inclusivity.
BFI Network opportunities
As of 2018, thanks to National Lottery funding, six BFI NETWORK talent executives have been appointed in the English Hubs to give greater support to new and emerging talent where they live. This recognises the strength of the Hubs as spaces for filmmakers and audiences to meet. The ambition is to ensure all aspiring talent across the UK can access support, as well as benefit from signposting to the full scope of funding and training opportunities available to develop careers across the screen industries.