Investment & Fund Management

Velvet Films, a Brussels-based production company, faced the challenge of securing financing for their latest project, "The Swedish Torpedo," a biopic about Sally Bauer, the first European woman to swim across the English Channel. The film aims to break gender norms and deliver a strong social message, but the complexities of film financing posed a significant hurdle. Sebastian Schelenz, the founder and managing director, emphasized the need for a strong, long-term relationship with banks, as film financing requires expertise to navigate its intricacies.

To address these challenges, Velvet Films secured an EU-guaranteed loan from Triodos Bank, backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF). This tailored financial solution provided the necessary cash flow to support the production of "The Swedish Torpedo." Despite the financial challenges and competition from streaming services, the project reflects a distinctly European collaboration, involving teams from Estonia, the UK, Finland, and Belgium.

The film not only aims to entertain but also to provoke thought and shape cultural narratives, showcasing the potential impact of independent cinema on society. Through this project, Velvet Films demonstrates the importance of innovative financing solutions in the audiovisual sector, enabling them to bring diverse and meaningful stories to the screen.