Animation Matchmaking Online Series
Calling all Writers | Directors | Producers | Animators
The Visual Effects Guild of Aotearoa New Zealand (VFXG), New Zealand Writers Guild (NZWG), and Directors & Editors Guild of Aotearoa (DEGANZ) partnering with New Zealand Film Commission Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga (NZFC), invite writers, directors, producers, and animators from across Aotearoa to take part in this dynamic matchmaking series to spark fresh animation collaborations.
To encourage more teams to apply for upcoming animation funding opportunities, we’re delivering a series of online events through our Animation Matchmaking Web App. This August we are bringing you a series featuring inspiring talks, group roundtables, and 1:1 speed networking—all from the convenience of your home or studio.
In 2025, the He Kauahi Catalyst Fund was relaunched with an exciting update: $500,000 has been ring-fenced specifically for animation projects. The next application round will open in September–October 2025.This builds on NZFC’s growing support for animation, including other initiatives such as the Annecy International Animation Film Market (MIFA) presence earlier this year. New Zealand’s booth and events showcased New Zealand’s world-class animation talent and connected local creators with global opportunities.
This event is FREE for participants, fully funded by NZFC.
Series Overview
Session 1: Info & Inspo | Monday 5 August, 6:30 PM (2 hours)
NZFC Presentation: Funding pathways for animated content, including animation-specific requirements and opportunities across development, production, and feature support as well as animation market intel and highlights from Annecy 2025.
Creative Masterclass: 2 leading NZ producers share insights on team formation, collaboration and funding pathways.
Session 2: Roundtables | Tuesday 20 August, 6:30 PM (4 hours)
Small-group sessions where participants pitch and discuss their concepts to connect with potential collaborators.
Session 3: 1:1 Speed Matching | Saturday 23 August, 10:00 AM (4 hours)
Pre-matched 1:1 sessions where participants meet to discuss projects and creative alignment.
Session 1 | Speakers
Ainsley Gardiner (Ngāti Awa, Te Whānau-a-Apanui, Ngāti Pikiao, Te Whakatōhea) | Head of Funding, NZFC
A seasoned producer and director, Ainsley has an impressive filmography including the acclaimed Waru and Cousins, which she co-directed. Her work also spans hits like Taika Waititi's Boy and The Breaker Upperers. Recognised with the Mana Wāhine award and as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Ainsley's deep industry experience now guides NZFC funding.
Bevin Linkhorn | NZFC Investment & Development Investment Executive
Bevin Linkhorn has worked as a producer, writer, actor and development executive across film, television, animation and theatre, creating and producing beloved and award-winning projects for local and international audiences. He recently attended Annecy MIFA supporting the team of NZ animation filmmakers at the market.
Fiona Copland | Producer
Fiona Copland is a celebrated NZ producer, renowned for the critically acclaimed animated series Kiri and Lou, earning BAFTA nomination and global awards. Fiona is currently in production on a Kiri and Lou feature funded in part by NZFC.
Angela Cudd | Producer
Angela Cudd leads Caravan Carpark Films, producing award-winning work including Uproar and When Bob Came. She is well-versed in the short film space and most recently produced Flagfall and Pītiti under the Catalyst He Kauahi fund.
How It Works: Step by Step
Sign Up (by the 4th of August) and get a link to the Animation Matchmaking Event Web App to create your profile and link to your sample materials.
Join the Info & Inspo Webinar on Tuesday, 5th of August.
Review Participants Profiles from the 6th to 23rd of August and Choose Your Round Tables
Join the Roundtables on Wednesday the 20th of August then Request Your 1:1 Meetings
Attend 1:1 Speed Matching on Saturday, 23rd of August
Platform: Animation Matchmaking Web App
All sessions will take place online using the Animation Matchmaking Web App. This is your one-stop portal to:
Create profiles and share a link to your materials in a file format of your choice
Access the live webinar
Join roundtables
Schedule and manage 1:1 meetings
An access link for the web app will be provided after registration.
Registration
Register by the 4th of August to secure your place.
Any questions? e: info@vfxg.nz | m: 0273488841