Scotland and Poland have many cultural connections, but a robust collaboration in the field of independent documentary is still to be established. This project is a first step towards an ongoing and ambitious cooperation and starting with focussing on film co-production.
The partners involved are Polish Docs and Scottish Documentary Institute (SDI), who both run international and highly praised industry events - Krakow Film Festival Industry Days for Polish Docs and the Edinburgh Pitch for SDI.
The project is delivered in two phases:
• 2024 - Nurturing & strengthening connections
With the support of Polish Docs and SDI, Polish and Scottish delegations of producers met and networked informally at key industry events and marketplaces (CPH:DOX, Sheffield DocFest, IDFA in the Netherlands).
• May 2025 - Scottish-Polish Independent Documentary Producers & Filmmakers gathering/lab at Krakow Film Festival Industry Days
An initial day-long event creates the opportunity for participants to exchange knowledge, share, network, and explore co-production and distribution avenues between Poland and Scotland, through bespoke and curated activities including panel discussions and group exercises, in a safe and relaxed environment. The event is curated and moderated by Polish Docs, SDI and industry experts.
This event is followed by a half-day session open to observers and festival delegates. Designed as an inspiration event and comprising of keynote speeches, panel discussions and case studies, it features Polish and Scottish producers as well as other industry guests.