Entertainment Partners: The Backbone of Production Finance and Management

By Michael ChenLast Updated May 7, 2025

Introduction to Entertainment Partners

Entertainment Partners (EP) stands as a cornerstone of the global entertainment industry, providing critical support for film, television, and digital content production. Established in 1976, EP has evolved from an industry pioneer into the leading provider of production finance and production management solutions, offering integrated, cloud-based tools that empower creative and commercial teams from script development to post-production [1] .

EP’s Core Services and Solutions

EP delivers a comprehensive suite of digital solutions, including:

Production Finance Studio : Manages budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting, ensuring full control over production finances. This includes the flagship SmartAccounting platform, which has revolutionized how productions track expenses and manage cash flow [1] .
Production Management Studio : Provides scheduling, crew management, and workflow optimization across the entire production lifecycle. EP’s Movie Magic Budgeting and Scheduling tools are widely recognized as industry standards, enabling teams to plan, execute, and adapt to changing production needs efficiently [1] .
Payroll and Residuals Processing : EP is the trusted partner for payroll services, handling complex union rules, residual payments, and regulatory compliance for productions of all sizes [2] .
Background Casting : Through the acquisition of Central Casting, EP offers the largest database of background actors, streamlining the casting process for directors and producers seeking talent for film and television projects [1] .

These solutions are delivered via secure, cloud-based platforms, ensuring access from any location and supporting remote and on-site teams alike. EP’s tools are tailored for scalability, from independent productions to Hollywood blockbusters [4] .

Industry Impact and Expertise

Entertainment Partners has supported tens of thousands of productions worldwide, helping creative professionals navigate the complex demands of budgeting, compliance, and workforce management. Their team includes in-house experts on global tax incentives, workers’ compensation, healthcare, labor regulations, and more [1] . By leveraging this expertise, productions can access incentives such as location offsets and government subsidies, maximizing budgets and ensuring legal compliance [4] .

For example, EP provides guidance on qualifying for the UK Cultural Test, which is essential for accessing British film incentives. Productions filming in Australia can take advantage of a 30% location offset, with EP offering best practices and regulatory updates to help teams qualify [4] .

Company Culture and Values

EP is recognized for its employee-centric culture, earning certifications as a Great Place to Work in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Their six guiding principles-act with integrity, commit to clients’ success, protect and secure, embrace diversity and inclusion, continuously grow and evolve, and listen and communicate openly-define a positive workplace where innovation flourishes [3] . According to recent surveys, 85% of employees report EP as a great place to work, a figure well above industry averages [2] .

EP’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in its recognition as one of the best workplaces for millennials and women-led management teams in Canada. The company also actively engages in community outreach and volunteer activities, extending its positive impact beyond the entertainment sector [3] .

How to Access Entertainment Partners’ Services

If you are a producer, director, or production manager seeking to leverage EP’s tools and expertise, you can begin by visiting the official Entertainment Partners website. Explore their digital solutions for production finance, management, and casting. You may also:

Contact EP directly through their website to request a demo or consultation tailored to your project’s needs.
Review upcoming webinars and Master Series events, which offer insights into industry trends and regulatory changes.
Sign up for EP’s online community, the Production Lot, to network with peers and gain access to exclusive resources.
Apply for open roles if you are interested in joining the EP team or seek career advancement in production finance and management.

For productions seeking tax incentives or location offsets, EP’s experts can provide step-by-step guidance on qualification processes, documentation, and compliance. While some services require direct engagement, general information about incentives and production support is available via the EP website [4] .

If you are unable to find specific details online, consider searching for ‘Entertainment Partners production incentives’, ‘production finance consulting’, or ‘Central Casting background talent’ for more targeted resources. You may also reach out to local film commissions or industry associations for additional support.

Challenges and Solutions in Production Management

Managing a production involves navigating numerous challenges, including budget overruns, workforce management, regulatory compliance, and access to incentives. EP’s digital platforms help address these issues by:

Automating payroll and expense tracking, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring timely payments.
Providing real-time data insights for decision-making, allowing teams to adjust schedules and budgets proactively.
Supporting compliance with union rules and labor laws, minimizing legal exposure.
Offering centralized databases for casting and crew management, streamlining talent acquisition and onboarding.

Alternative approaches for productions include engaging independent consultants or using competing platforms, but few match EP’s depth of integration and industry experience. Teams should evaluate their needs and consider EP’s proven track record when selecting production support solutions.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Entertainment Partners is more than a software provider-it is a strategic partner for the entertainment industry, offering end-to-end solutions that drive efficiency, compliance, and creativity. With decades of experience, a talented workforce, and a commitment to innovation and inclusivity, EP empowers productions to realize their vision from concept to completion.

To get started, visit the official Entertainment Partners website, explore their suite of services, and connect with their team for personalized guidance. Whether you are mounting a small indie project or a major studio blockbuster, EP has the expertise and tools to support your journey.