New Zealand Producers Offered Global Growth Opportunity Through Activator Screen Business Programme

A new opportunity has launched for New Zealand’s film and television producers with the arrival of Activator—a professional development initiative focused on business growth and international expansion.

Developed by award-winning production company Libertine Pictures and strategic advisory firm 113 Partners, the Activator Screen Business Programme is specifically designed for mid-career and established producers with a track record in the local screen sector. The programme aims to bridge the gap between creativity and commercial sustainability, ensuring New Zealand screen professionals are equipped to succeed in today’s globally connected industry.

Running from July to October 2025, Activator is structured around three key focus areas:

1. Industry Knowledge:
Participants will attend three two-day, in-person workshops, gaining insights into how international markets operate, including development models, financing strategies, pitching frameworks, and production structures.

2. Global Relationships:
Through two weeks of online learning and three five-day international market visits to Sydney, London, and Los Angeles, producers will connect with top-tier industry figures including streamers, broadcasters, agents, sales agents, and financiers.

3. Commercial Capability:
The programme includes hands-on business training to help producers build sustainable models that support long-term success in both domestic and global markets.

Backed by Key Industry Partners
The Activator programme is supported by the New Zealand Film Commission, NZ On Air, Te Māngai Pāho, and the Vista Foundation, with additional support from Netflix, Grant Thornton, Gallagher Insurance, and Hinterland.

Deb Richards of Netflix highlighted the global potential of New Zealand’s screen sector:
“New Zealand’s content ecosystem has an excellent international reputation. Activator ensures local producers can continue to contribute meaningfully to global production opportunities.”

Strengthening the Local Screen Sector
Annie Murray, CEO of the New Zealand Film Commission, said the programme is about turning creative strength into long-term business resilience:
“New Zealand is home to extraordinary talent. Activator helps turn that potential into impact on the global stage, underpinned by strong business capability.”

Four scholarships are available to participants from underrepresented communities, which include additional mentoring from Libertine Pictures and Hinterland.

Applications are open now and close on Friday, 16 May 2025. The programme is limited to 12 producers and includes structured learning, mentorship, and international exposure.

For full details or to apply, visit www.libertinepictures.com.