Three Stones Media Introduces Animation Fund

U.K.-based indie outfit Three Stones Media has launched an Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) fund to promote production of animated kids’ projects including the twice BAFTA-nominated Rastamouse, supported by One World Investments and Enterprise Private Equity. The government scheme is designed to help small businesses raise finance by offering a range of tax reliefs to investors who contribute towards the fund. The scheme offers companies an alternative to co-production when bringing concepts to life.

The fund is seeking up to £10 million ($16 million) for investment into companies involved in the production of animated childrens’ television programmes. Three Stones is talking to creators and producers to find projects that have a strong authored voice and with excellent potential to attract audiences via established broadcasters. The fund will also support the chosen projects to strengthen their potential across all platforms and to maximise the value of the IP in the children’s licensing domain.

Three Stones Media producer Greg Boardman notes, “We are creating Three Stones Media as a great business to invest in for great storytelling. One World Investments has been integral to the success of Rastamouse and has seen its journey from conception through to where it is today, so to have them involved and backing the Fund is invaluable. The animation industry is constantly evolving and getting bigger each year and we are excited to help fund new projects, and through our experience, we look forward to assisting and identifying further investments for the Fund.”