Speakers include Actor Thomas Turgoose, award-winning Editor Becca Lloyd and more
The Manchester Film Festival returns this March for its twelfth year, announcing the biggest ever Industry Programme for 2026. This year, attendees can expect twice the number of panels, conversations and roundtables designed to support filmmakers at every stage of their careers.
Set to take place at multiple venues across the city centre, including HOME, Met Film School, and The CUPRA City Garage, the Industry Programme brings together leading voices from across the UK film landscape to explore the realities of making, financing, selling and sustaining a career in film in 2026. With a strong focus on access, regional filmmaking, equity and audience engagement, the programme is aimed at filmmakers, producers, writers, editors, students and industry professionals.
This year’s programme also addresses some of the biggest challenges faced by UK filmmakers today, including the future of film finance, how sales agents assess projects, building careers outside London, alternative routes to audiences, and how filmmakers without financial privilege can break in.
Neil Jeram-Croft, Festival Director of Manchester Film Festival, says: “Our Industry Programme has always been about honesty, access and community. In 2026, it feels more important than ever to create spaces where filmmakers can have open conversations about money, markets, sustainability and who gets to tell stories. We’re proud to be bringing together such an experienced and generous group of speakers to support both emerging and established talent, particularly here in the North.”
Manchester Film Festival takes place in Manchester 19-29 March 2026, with screenings and events across key city venues. The festival continues to champion bold, original filmmaking and remains a vital meeting point for filmmakers and industry professionals from across the UK and beyond.
To see the full list of exclusive industry events and apply for accreditation now, click here.
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