Calling all regionally based independent producers, filmmakers and content creators
Join RTÉ, Cork International Film Festival and University College Cork for a day of industry insights, practical workshops and networking at the Metropole Hotel on November 18th.
The event will mark the launch of the RTÉ Regional Production Round 2027, offering an early look at regional commissioning priorities, development opportunities and the future of content creation across Ireland.
RTÉ commissioning leaders Alan Tyler, David Crean, Suzanne Kelly and Sean Mac Giolla Phadraig will discuss opportunities across Entertainment, Drama, Young People’s Content and Factual programming. The programme also includes a Business Affairs & Rights Clinic and a comedy workshop led by RTÉ Head of Comedy, Mark Bignell.
Connect with commissioners, fellow producers, cultural partners, academics and emerging creative talent, explore potential collaborations and gain practical insight into RTÉ’s commissioning process.
Schedule for the Film Networking and Industry Day with RTÉ
10:30 | Registration
SESSION 1
11:00-12:00 | Launch of the RTÉ Regional Round 2027
Discover the Next Big Opportunities for Regional Content
Get an early insight into RTÉ’s Regional Round 2027 and what it could mean for producers, filmmakers and storytellers across Ireland. Discover how collaboration between broadcasters, cultural organisations and educational institutions can support fresh ideas, reach new audiences and open up funding opportunities. For anyone developing ambitious content rooted in the regions, with the potential to connect nationally, this discussion offers a valuable starting point.
Format: Expert presentations, case studies and audience Q&A.
Panel
Sean Mac Giolla Phadraig, Managing Editor, Video, RTÉ
Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive Officer, The Heritage Council & Executive Producer
John Fitzgerald, Executive Producer, University College Cork
Heidi McAlpin, Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund Manager, Northern Ireland Screen
Host
Colm Crowley, Head of RTÉ Regional Commissioning and RTÉ Cork
SESSION 2
12:30-13:30 | Beyond Broadcast: The Commissioning Editor of 2030
What Will RTÉ Be Looking for Next?
As the media landscape evolves, what does it take to create content that connects? Join RTÉ’s senior commissioning leaders for an open discussion on the future of programming, audiences and storytelling. Covering Drama, Entertainment, Young People’s and Factual, the session will explore current commissioning priorities, the skills producers need and the opportunities emerging in a digital-first world.
Panel
Alan Tyler, Group Head of Entertainment & Music, RTÉ
Suzanne Kelly, Group Head of Young People's Content, RTÉ
David Crean, Head of Drama, & Comedy Drama RTÉ
Sean Mac Giolla Phadraig, Managing Editor, Video, RTÉ
Host
Dr Ciara Chambers, Head of School of Film, Music & Theatre, University College Cork
SESSION 3
14:30-15:30 | The Business of Funny: Inside RTÉ Comedy
How Great Comedy Gets Made
What turns a fresh comedy idea into a show audiences love? Join RTÉ’s Head of Comedy and leading industry voices to explore how talent is discovered, ideas are developed and comedy reaches the screen. Through real-world case studies and practical advice, this session offers an inside look at comedy commissioning and production, and what it takes to create a successful show.
Format Expert presentations, case studies and audience Q&A.
Speaker
Mark Bignell & Host, Head of Comedy, RTÉ
Panel
Leading comedy producers and creators, including representatives from JOE.ie
SESSION 4
16:00-17:00 | Business Affairs & Rights Clinic for New Production Companies
Turn Great Ideas into Sustainable Businesses
Behind every successful production is a strong business foundation. This practical clinic will guide emerging producers and production companies through contracts, rights management, co-production, distribution and access to international markets. With expert advice and real-world examples, the session will help you navigate the commercial side of production and build a sustainable content business.
Format: Expert presentations, case studies and audience Q&A.
Panel
Edel Edwards, RTÉ Head of RTÉ International Programme Sales
Conor Sweeny, RTÉ Production Executive/Lawyer
Ian O' Brien, Head of RTÉ Independent Production Unit, Business and Finance
How to Attend the Film Industry Day with RTÉ
Tickets are free and you can work it to your schedule. You can book a ticket to each sessions or a day ticket.
Registered members of the IPU (Independent Producers Unit) can apply for tickets by contacting liz.casey@rte.ie.
Tickets can also be booked through the Cork International Film Festival website.
