Sheffield DocFest funding plan delayed
The Sheffield Council’s long-term funding for the city’s documentary film festival is to be reviewed after its grant arrangement ended.
The local authority is set to approve a one-year extension giving £100,000 to support the festival, but it is £50,000 less than the local authority has given DocFest in previous years, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.
In the report, prepared for a meeting of the finance sub-committee on Monday, officers said: “Hosting the festival adds to the city’s reputation as a cultural and creative destination, enhancing its appeal both to visitors, businesses and those who may wish to move to Sheffield to work.
“Providing a one-year extension whilst a longer term agreement is reached ensures stability and viability for Sheffield DocFest whilst they continue to recover from the pandemic and international travel recovers globally.”
DocFest, the leading documentary festival in the UK, brings in an estimated £1.4m in spending to the city each year.
The report said the extension will ensure DocFest’s “stability and viability”.
The festival, held in June, is celebrating its 30th anniversary festival in 2023.
The report added: “The council will also be able to review its position in 2023 and decide how best to continue any further sponsorship to DocFest.”
