After a 12-year career at Finnish Broadcasting Company YLE as Sales Manager, Maria Kivinen exits the company to launch her distribution and financing outfit Norse Key Studios.

The TV and film distribution and international financing company Norse Key Studios Ltd specialises in international sales of unscripted formats and documentaries, kids & youth programmes, scripted drama and comedy series, feature films, and music and performing arts IP.

The slate of content includes hit reality format Influencer Apprentice from Podzilla Studios which was number one at YLE, and content from YLE’s FVOD platform Areena.

Norse Key Studios will also represent an array of Finnish nature and wildlife documentaries including documentaries by Finnish production company DokArt Ky., and kids content including Kompani ORD from NRK’s B15 co-operation.

The company has also picked up the rights to moving music documentary The Sound of Tine Thing Helseth from NRK Norway.

Norse Key Studios will also executive produce series and film projects that require international financing through pre-sales co-production packaging.

Maria Kivinen, found and CEO of Norse Key Studios, says, “After 12 fantastic years at YLE, I’m incredibly excited to start this new chapter with Norse Key Studios. Our mission is to bring distinctive Nordic and international stories to a global audience, from gripping drama series and feature films, bold new formats to powerful documentaries and inspiring music and arts projects. There is so much creative energy in our region, and I look forward to collaborating with producers, broadcasters, and partners worldwide to unlock new opportunities.”