The Business Side of Animation in the US
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The Business Side of Animation in the US
Details
APPLICATION GROUP 3
Applications Open:
8/5/25
THIS CIRCLE IS PERFECT FOR
The ideal candidate has any of the following interests:
- needs to learn about the business side of animation for their careers and to be able to navigate specific conversations in the workplace
- wants to start their own studio or switch to full-time freelance and coordinate working with others
- is interested in learning about the different business models and financial structures of studios to inform their own future goals better
WHAT TO EXPECT
Mentees can expect to learn:
- the business pipeline, from sales to marketing to taxes and more
- the different challenges studios face at scale, from emotional to logistical
- how studios can implement better workplace practices, policies, etc
- how to begin the process of starting a studio or how to grow a studio from scratch
WHAT NOT TO EXPECT
- We simply do not have time to go through every single aspect of business development at a studio, so don’t expect every department to have an in depth session. This circle is meant to be an overview while answering specific questions along the way where possible
Qualification Criteria
Early Career (3-5 yrs)
Mid Level (6-10 yrs of experience)
Upper Level (10+ yrs of experience)
Day / Time
Times Per Month: Weekly
Day / Time: Tuesday 6:00 PM
Timezone: PST
* You must meet the qualification criteria AND be able to attend the posted day/time of the circle (please note the timezone posted)
CIRCLE DESCRIPTION
This circle will discuss the ins and outs of the business side of an animation studio, share why and how decisions are made, and what steps are required to start your own studio or full-time freelance entity.
There will be a mix of engaging conversations, some small lectures, and some speakers from other businesses (large and small!). The goal is to come out of the circle with a better understanding of how studios operate and to provide information that can help with your personal goals and dreams.
ADDITIONAL Application Requirements
Please submit the following as part of your Application Profile:
*(AFTER you click to apply, you must go into your member profile and complete the member-specific portion; these requirements should be submitted through that profile):
- Resume
Circle Leader
Kathryn Taccone
Kathryn Taccone is a co-founder and animator at Open Pixel Studios, a women-owned animation studio in Massachusetts.
She has been an executive for the last 5 years in her business. She has gained experience in multiple industries through her unique background and affiliation with animation, video games, film, and theater. Kathryn is passionate about the video game industry as a gamer, streamer, and character animator for mobile and AAA titles. Her experiences over the last decade have led her to her interest in providing safe spaces for communication so we can continue changing and improving workplace environments for the better.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Current Title: Co-Founder
Studio / Employer: Open Pixel Studios
