Film and Multimedia Innovation Center IDA Hub Creates New Opportunities for International Film Production in Estonia

In Ida-Viru County, the Film and Multimedia Innovation Center IDA Hub is beginning its content activities, creating the conditions for servicing international productions in Estonia and supporting the development of the audiovisual sector. The founders of the center are the Ida-Viru Investment Agency (IVIA), Ida-Viru Enterprise Center (IVEK), and the science and business campus Tehnopol.

The purpose of the Film and Multimedia Innovation Center IDA Hub is to support the development of film talents and smart future creators. The establishment of the center in Ida-Virumaa supports one of the key objectives of the Just Transition Fund to diversify the region’s economic model and support the development of small businesses in the area. The strength of the IDA Hub lies in complex solutions and the capability to integrate technological development with the needs of the film industry.

The physical establishment, design to match the content concept, and subsequent management of the center are the responsibility of the Ida-Viru Investment Agency (IVIA). A cornerstone for the center is planned to be laid in the second half of this year. The Ida-Viru Enterprise Center (IVEK), in cooperation with Tehnopol, is creating content for the film innovation center, which includes the implementation of innovative incubation programs, community integration, and support for local economic life by providing a platform for affiliated companies.

IVEK will launch an incubator program under the center in April, which is open to both existing and starting entrepreneurs and individuals who want to be involved in the development of the audiovisual sector. Incubation program coordinator Britta Merirand revealed the content of the planned incubation program: “During the program, the incubatees will receive support through personal mentorship and practical training to help develop their company. The program covers basic knowledge of film production, marketing, business planning, and the green economy.”

In the pilot year, some of the program activities will take place online, allowing participation across Estonia. Needs-based mentors, who are experts in film production and multimedia and entrepreneurship, will support the incubatees. The new incubation program supports the changes necessary to diversify the county’s economic model. Applications for the incubator program are open from March 14 until April 12, 2024.

Tehnopol Startup Incubator is launching a film and multimedia-oriented acceleration program at IDA Hub, where technology-based startups pushing the film industry can get a boost. Program manager Olga Kurdovskaja emphasized that the film industry is constantly evolving, and technology plays a crucial role in film production, especially in creating high-tech special effects and virtual scenes. “The emerging film innovation center not only supports the necessary infrastructure but also offers innovative opportunities for startups and creative enterprises. Through incubation programs and collaboration, an environment is created where new ideas can support the development of the film production sector. Our goal is to create a strong and dynamic ecosystem that supports the development of the film sector in Estonia and contributes to the development of new ideas, technologies, and talents. If you have a starting technology company, a dedicated team, and have progressed from the idea stage to an MVP or prototype, then definitely apply to the film and multimedia accelerator. Applications are accepted until April 30, 2024,” said Kurdovskaja.

The goal of the first test cohorts is to validate content services, gather feedback, and develop strong and comprehensive incubation programs that support the sector by spring 2025. The programs at the Film and Multimedia Innovation Center IDA Hub are funded by the European Union.

More information can be found www.ivia.ee