16 February, 2026

 

 

 

Researchers from the Munster Technological University (MTU) participated in the CresCine Research Conference at the European Film Market (EFM), held during Berlinale 2026 at Film University Babelsberg KONRAD WOLF, Potsdam. The event brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to share data-driven insights on innovation, sustainability, and the structural challenges facing European film, particularly in smaller production markets.

The conference featured contributions from leading international scholars and industry experts and provided a platform for dialogue on strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of the European audiovisual sector through research-informed approaches.

 

 

Evidence-based insights for producer resilience and industry competitiveness

A key theme of the conference was the role of evidence-based research in strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of European film industries, particularly in smaller production markets. Presentations focused on new data on market trends, policy frameworks, and structural barriers affecting production ecosystems across Europe.

Fiacre Muller’s contribution presented findings from CresCine’s entrepreneurial development workshops for film producers. Drawing on proven entrepreneurship research methods, the presentation highlighted how structured reflective practices — including strategic self-assessment, milestone mapping, and causal reasoning — support producers in testing assumptions, clarifying strategic goals, and improving project viability.

The research positions producer training as a driver of industry resilience rather than simply skills development, suggesting that structured reflective processes can strengthen decision-making, enhance project sustainability, and improve professional outcomes for producers.

 

 

Data-driven dialogue and knowledge exchange

The conference provided a platform for dialogue between academic researchers, policy actors, and industry practitioners, reinforcing CresCine’s focus on translating research insights into practical tools and policy recommendations. Discussions emphasised the importance of robust audiovisual data, market intelligence, and innovation-focused policy design in supporting a sustainable European screen sector.

 

 

Launch of State of European Film Volume 3

The research conference formed part of CresCine’s wider programme at the European Film Market, including the launch of State of European Film Volume 3 on 14 February 2026 at the EFM Mirror Tent.

The publication represents the final comprehensive industry report from CresCine, a Horizon Europe-funded project aimed at strengthening the competitiveness and diversity of the European film industry, particularly within smaller markets. As the culmination of the three-year project, the report provides expert recommendations for the future development of the European audiovisual sector.

The report examines key challenges and growth drivers across small European film markets, including production capacity, distribution models, audience engagement, and sustainable financing structures. Its release also coincides with the use of the Film Industry Data Repository (FIDA), an interactive data-driven tool designed to support analysis of the film lifecycle and improve evidence-based decision-making across the sector.

Together, the research conference and report launch highlight CresCine’s mission to strengthen European film through research-led innovation, industry collaboration, and policy-informed development.

 

 

Fiacre Muller,

Researcher, Hincks Centre.