Screen to host EIS seminar on March 12

A Screen International seminar on March 12 will discuss how to make the most of proposed changes to the Enterprise Investment Scheme.

EIS expert Dave Morrison, from entertainment accountants Nyman Libson Paul, will address issues such as how EIS works, what the scheme means for film-makers and production companies and how to meet eligibility criteria.

He will also explain how to maximise individual allowances, how EIS interacts with film and whether new anti-avoidance measures will affect companies’ EIS.

The EIS is one of the biggest shake-ups in UK film financing for years, and new rules are set to come into effect from April 6.

It is anticipated that film production companies will be able to benefit from the proposed raising of the cap on EIS from £2 million to £10 million, pending EU approval.

In addition, the amount individuals can invest via the scheme is intended to increase to £1m.

Producer Martin Carr of Formosa Films, who has first-hand experience in raising EIS cash for film production, will join Morrison at the ‘EIS: How to Make it Work for You’ seminar. The event will be chaired by Screen International’s Mike Goodridge.

Morrison said: “With tax advantages that take a lot of the risk out of investing and a three-year life cycle, EIS is an ideal vehicle for film production and it is set to get better.”

Goodridge said: “The proposed changes to EIS are important and offer considerable opportunities. Screen International’s EIS seminar will guide you through the scheme and focus on what you need to know.”

Formosa Film’s latest feature, Twenty8k, written by Paul Abbott (State of Play, Shameless) and Jimmy Dowdall and starring Parminder Nagra is currently in post-production, scheduled for release in autumn 2012.

The Screen International Seminar ‘EIS: How to Make it Work for You’ is taking place at 9am on March 12 at The Hospital Club. For more information and to book your place visit this site.