New Org Matchmakes Research and Entertainment Sectors

A global 'hub' called OKRE has been launched, to support collaboration between the research sector and entertainment industries and help audiences better engage with the ideas that shape society.

OKRE (Opening Knowledge across Research & Entertainment), is the result of a partnership between health research charity the Wellcome Trust and non-governmental organisation Research & Innovation, as well as funding from crowdfunding publisher Unbound Philanthropy, and social change organisation the Joseph Rowntree Trust. Its mission is to provide researchers; individuals working in broadcast, film and interactive media; and 'social impact' professionals with access to networking opportunities, expert advice and funding.

The hub will bring together a mix of expertise to improve understanding of how entertainment impacts on audiences and shapes perceptions and beliefs. A networking service will help inspire new ways of thinking; and a series of events will be held to inspire new ideas and kick-start collaborations. Funding will also be available to fuel cross-sector ideas and collaborations in research and entertainment.

OKRE, which was launched at the Wellcome Screenwriting Fellowship awards in London last night, will be led by Iain Dodgeon (pictured), who previously served as Broadcast, Games and Film Manager at the Wellcome Institute. Advisory Board members include Michaela Coel, actress, screenwriter and 2018 Wellcome Screenwriting Fellow; Paul Fletcher, the Bernard Wolfe Professor of Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge; Ben Andac, producer, writer and Creative Development Executive in the video game and film industries; and Kate Townsend who is Director of Original Documentary at Netflix.

Web site: www.okre.org .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.