The Erich Pommer Institute was founded in 1998. The institute was named after the significant film producer Erich Pommer, who, in addition to his interest in technical innovations, was committed to promoting budding film talents as well as the training and further education of his employees.

Based on scientific research and against the background of media convergence, the institute develops solutions for the media industry, media policy, and media education.

The range of topics spans from questions of media economics, such as film financing or TV format trading, through media legal issues, for example, copyright or licensing law, digital media law and media management, to practical and political aspects of media convergence, and questions of media usage and design.

In further education, the institute organizes numerous events in Germany, throughout Europe, and in Canada. Online continuing education courses have also been offered since 2015. Additionally, the institute creates independent expert opinions and studies and provides advice to companies, associations, and institutions.

Professional conferences and congresses are held on various topics, for example, copyright policy and big data. Among other things, the EPI organizes a conference on current issues of the media industry every two years in cooperation with the Film University Babelsberg, which is aimed at those interested in the film industry, the arts, and sciences, as well as cultural and economic policy.

Furthermore, the EPI is committed to programs promoting women in leadership positions within media companies.

Supporters of the institute include media industry companies and public institutions. The cooperative partners and the advisory board accompany and advise its activities.