Production Futures has announced its Industry Partners Pledge with the aim of ensuring that every business in the entertainment production industry can offer training, a placement, or an apprenticeship by 2030. The initiative seeks to build a more accessible and inclusive industry by nurturing the next generation of talent and promoting a diverse workforce.
The Industry Partners Pledge was announced at Production Futures’ ON TOUR show at the AO Arena in Manchester, which proved to be the organisation’s busiest ever event with more than two thousand people in attendance.
To further support its aim of increasing knowledge and accessibility in the sector, the organisation has also unveiled its soon-to-be-launched Community App. The platform is set to connect newcomers, freelancers, students and employers in an unprecedented way, unlocking around-the-clock access to jobs, training, events, and up-to-date industry insights. The App currently has a waiting list for those poised to be first through its digital portal.
Hannah Eakins of Production Futures is excited about the new developments:
“Over the last three years, we’ve worked hard with our partners to build a trusted community centred on connection, access, and our shared belief in the potential of young people to achieve great things. Across fifteen live events we’ve enjoyed meeting face-to-face more than fifteen thousand young people, as well as attracting more than forty thousand followers to our social media platforms. It’s been a joy to watch this in-person and digital growth, which is in no small measure thanks to the skills and effort of our exceptional marketing team.
“The launch of the Pledge and our Community App feel like two very natural and exciting next steps, which will give us the chance to break down even more barriers, go global, and be available for our community twenty-four seven.”
A long-time supporter of the Production Futures mission is Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who has attended previous ON TOUR events in person:
“Greater Manchester has always led the way when it comes to creativity and culture. Supporting the Production Futures Industry Partners Pledge is about backing the people and ideas that make our city-region such a vibrant, inspiring place to live and work. We know the value of the creative industries – not just economically, but in shaping who we are – and we’ll keep doing all we can to help them thrive.”
Gaby Cartwright, Head of Partnerships at LIVE & The LIVE Award welcomes the Pledge:
“At LIVE, we believe the future of the live entertainment industry depends on the strength, diversity, and creativity of the next generation. The Production Futures Industry Partners Pledge is a vital step toward ensuring that production and entertainment businesses across the UK are not only opening their doors to young people, but actively creating pathways into the industry. For our sector to truly thrive and remain inclusive, it’s essential that the people behind the scenes reflect the full diversity of our audiences. We’re proud to support this initiative and excited to see how the new Community App will help unlock access, opportunity and connection at every level.”
Further support comes from Head of Apprentice Sales at Access Industry, Katie Bambridge:
“At Access Industry, we are proud to support the Pledge, which sets a bold goal. Through this collaboration, we are actively working with Production Futures to make this vision a reality – whether by promoting businesses already offering opportunities or by helping others develop structured pathways for new talent. By championing apprenticeships and placements, we are directly addressing the industry’s skills gap, empowering fresh talent, and ensuring a sustainable future for entertainment production. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive and innovative industry, where the next generation has the access, support, and training they need to thrive.”
Alex Pole, UK Marketing Specialist at CHAUVET Professional and ChamSys is also squarely behind the Pledge:
“We’re proud to be an Industry Pledge Partner and fully support Production Futures in their mission to build a more accessible and inclusive production industry. At Chauvet, we’re passionate about nurturing the next generation of talent, and we’re excited to work together to offer meaningful placements and apprenticeships by 2030. The future of our industry starts here – and we’re all in.”
