The film and media industry is constantly changing, and staying ahead means balancing creativity with a solid understanding of business, law, and the digital landscape. The Erich Pommer Institut (EPI) has become a go-to destination for professionals looking to sharpen their skills and deepen their knowledge. With a range of programmes like European Film Business and Law LL.M. | MBA, as well as specialized workshops, EPI offers a unique opportunity for participants to grow both creatively and commercially, helping them navigate the complex world of film and media.

EPI is now accepting applications for its fourth edition, with a deadline of 31 July (early bird applications until the end of April). Interested candidates can join the next info session on 8 April at 5pm CEST. Whether through specialised workshops or its well-established degree programme, EPI provides a robust foundation for career advancement and innovation in the global audiovisual landscape. The programme’s project manager Katriina Miola delves deep into its offerings and its workshops.

Cineuropa: How does EPI's Digital Distribution – Maximising Reach and Revenues workshop equip participants to navigate the evolving digital landscape and effectively monetise their content?
Katriina Miola: The Digital Distribution – Maximising Reach and Revenues workshop is an incredible opportunity for anyone wanting to get a strong handle on the ever-changing digital landscape and learn how to effectively monetise their content. Led by our Head of Studies Nuno Bernardo from beActive Entertainment the workshop covers a broad range of crucial topics – everything from uncovering new business opportunities and marketing strategies to IP development, AI tools for producers, and key legal insights.

The workshop dives deep into practical areas like how to increase the value of your catalogue, the ins and outs of digital distribution agreements, key deal points, and negotiation tips. Participants will also explore the role of aggregators and examine real-world case studies of recent titles that stand out for their creative and innovative digital distribution strategies. What truly sets this workshop apart is its hands-on approach. It’s not just about theory – you’ll work on group projects based on fictional content, applying what you learn in real-time. With expert feedback and guidance throughout, you’ll have numerous chances to refine your strategies and build confidence in your approach.

By the end of the workshop, participants will have a clear understanding of how digital distribution works, how to find and engage the right audience, and – most importantly – how to make content stand out in an increasingly competitive and crowded marketplace.

How does the Clearing Rights for Film and TV workshop equip participants with the legal expertise needed to navigate complex rights clearance challenges in audiovisual productions?
The Clearing Rights for Film and TV workshop, led by Katharina Domnick, LL.M. as a head of studies, a renowned lawyer and partner at the Berlin office of Brehm & v. Moers, offers practical legal knowledge and strategies to help participants tackle complex clearance challenges.

The workshop covers essential areas like structuring rights clearance procedures, clearing music rights, and navigating issues with trademarks, archival materials, and personality rights. Additionally, with the growing role of generative AI in production, participants will explore its legal implications.

Industry experts such as Anders Kjærhauge, Wolfgang Brehm, and Balázs Zachar (who is not only an expert in this workshop but also an MBA alumnus of the European Film Business and Law programme) share real-world case studies from major production companies and recent films and series.

With interactive sessions like expert speed-dating and group case studies, participants can directly apply what they’ve learned to their own projects. By the end of the workshop, they will leave with the legal expertise and practical strategies to navigate rights clearance challenges in their productions with confidence.

How does EPI’s initiative, the European Film Business and Law LL.M. | MBA programme, support professionals in advancing their careers in the film industry?
The European Film Business and Law LL.M. | MBA programme at EPI is designed to provide professionals with the tools they need to thrive in the film industry. Whether participants choose the MBA or the LL.M. track, they gain a 360-degree understanding of both the business and legal aspects of the industry – something increasingly crucial in today’s fast-changing audiovisual landscape.

One of the distinguishing features of this programme is its balance between academic depth and real-world application. Lecturers are not just professors but top industry experts, producers, entertainment lawyers, and media executives, who bring first-hand insights into every session. They include Christiane Stützle (Morrison Foerster), Sophokles Tasioulis (MovieLedger and Sophisticated Films), Prof. Eric Kearney (University of Potsdam), Prof. Manuel Damasio (University of Lusófona & CresCine) and Dr. Julia Schafdecker (Fieldfisher) among others. The curriculum covers everything from financing and distribution to intellectual property, from AI and copyright to new business models, ensuring that what participants learn is immediately relevant to their careers.

Flexibility is another major advantage. The programme is primarily online, allowing participants to join from wherever they are while balancing studies with professional and personal commitments.

Participants come from a variety of professional backgrounds, creating a dynamic learning environment. Many alumni have gone on to achieve great things in production, distribution, legal advice and leadership positions in the film and entertainment world. For example, Noemi Ferrer founded her own film consulting company, Yes & Noe; Meike Götz recently took on the role of CEO at Germany's regional film fund Nordmedia in early 2025; current student Joni Hatanmaa, an experienced lawyer, has embarked on a new project – launching TabiCine Oy, a company dedicated to content rights and distribution between Japan and Finland, a passion he was able to turn into a business thanks to his studies at EPI.

These success stories highlight the programme’s ability to empower professionals to take the next step in their careers, whether by advancing in their current roles or branching out into new ventures.

For more information on the other programmes, click here.