'They're proof business can thrive in the North East': Gateshead firm working with Channel 4, BBC, and FIFA+
A Gateshead-based production company, which has worked with the BBC, Channel 4 and FIFA+, has secured a £75,000 investment to support its next phase of growth.
Motif Pictures secured the funding from mayor Kim McGuinness' North East Culture and Creative Investment Programme (CCIP). The funding will support the businesses shift towards direct-to-audience platforms, responding to changes in commissioning and audience behaviour.
Central to this plan is Left Field, a new YouTube channel that will showcase original interview formats, sports documentaries and short-form content. The North East CCIP is a £1.5m fund delivered by Creative UK on behalf of the North East mayor, designed to provide loans and equity investment to help creative and cultural businesses in the North East grow, innovate, and create impact.
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Founded in 2020 by James Craggs and Tautvydas Baranauskas, the company's productions have taken the team around the world, though its base remains firmly rooted in the North East.
James Craggs, founder at Motif Pictures, said: "This is a really exciting new venture for us and we've been guided brilliantly by everyone we've worked with at Creative UK throughout this process.
“Our aim is to build platforms that are bold, unique and that amplify new and different voices, and this investment enables us to do that. We’re thrilled to be taking this first step in our journey with an excellent partner."
North East mayor Kim McGuinness added: "It was a no-brainer to back the brilliant Motif Pictures – with their roots firmly in Gateshead, they're proof that creative businesses can thrive in the North East. I'm really excited to see what’s to come from them as they build on their impressive track record.
"Our creative sector is thriving and we're investing to make it even better. I want our home-grown talents to be able to succeed in the North East while having the opportunity to take their place on the world stage."