Under the three-year deal, Allwyn will sponsor a new month-long scholarship to Los Angeles in California for one emerging European director each year to learn from the best in the film industry.
The program, run in collaboration with Future Frames, will include mentoring, shadowing and training.
Launched in 2015, Future Frames has enabled European directors to launch their careers in the film industry. Each year, 10 promising directors are invited to the Karlovy Vary IFF to showcase their work, receive tailored mentorship and training, and build relationships.
As part of the new partnership, Allwyn will introduce an awards ceremony during the festival that will celebrate the work of all 10 selected directors.
The Karlovy Vary IFF is one of the oldest film festivals in Europe, having first taken place in 1946. This year’s edition will run from 30 June to 8 July.
“Through this partnership, Allwyn is continuing to grow its community of winners around the globe,” Allwyn’s chief officer of global brand, corporate communication and CSR, Pavel Turek, said. “We’re passionate about changing lives for the better and this extends beyond those who buy a lottery ticket; it means supporting those who strive to achieve greatness in society, including in the arts.
“Initiatives like Future Frames ensure that opportunity is spread across generations, and, as we build the lotteries of the future, we are equally committed to ensure future generations also benefit from the good we provide to society.”
Karlovy Vary IFF executive director Kryštof Mucha added: “Thanks to our new partner, Allwyn, and our close collaboration with talent agency UTA and management company Range Media Partners, we can provide promising European directors with a vital opportunity to kick-start their careers and further their creative development, as well as the chance to gain experience from renowned figures in the world of film.
“The Karlovy Vary Film Festival continues its long-term strategy of discovering and supporting the filmmakers of the future.”