UK funding body Creative England and Canadian sales and distribution giant Entertainment One (eOne) are coming together to develop and finance a TV drama slate from regional producers in the UK.

The UK-based fund will support the production of television content aimed at the international market, with eOne consolidating internationally its development and production activities in the UK while working alongside the well-established Creative England.

The Entertainment One and Creative England Television Drama Venture is currently scouting for an executive to lead the scheme, which is set to back “new and original UK voices”.

Caroline Norbury, CEO of Creative England said: “At Creative England, we are dedicated to working with the most exciting creative talent and giving them the investment and support they need to find success.

“It is fantastic to be working with eOne on such a unique venture that will give UK talent access to a global market and the chance to take their work to brand new audiences.”

Carrie Stein, EVP of global production for eOne Television, added: “As we ramp up our production activity in the UK and build on successful first-look and production deals with television creators, this partnership supports our increasing focus on developing the best content from diverse creative resources and delivering it to our international partners.

eOne had been looking to expand its production in the UK, so the alliance with Creative England – whose production funds have backed high profile projects such as Dancing on the Edge and 45 Years – appears to be just what is needed to strengthen ties on both sides.  

Pictured l-r: Caroline Norbury, CEO Creative England; Ed Vaizey MP, Minister for Culture and the Digital Economy; Carrie Stein, EVP global production, eOne.