Channel 4 has teamed up with The TV Collective to open its doors to BAME-owned indies.
The Viacom-owned network is seeking 9 small or medium-sized companies, primarily in the regions, which are owned and managed by BAME executives.
They will then meet up with its commissioning team, to bring produce mainstream and popular programmes.
“The objective of the programme is not about producing niche programming; we are opening the door to ambitious and talented BAME-run indies who can deliver content with broad appeal across all our key genres, and most importantly, offer programming ideas that will resonate with viewers,” explained Ben Frow [pictured], Director of Programmes, Channel 5.
“We are delighted to partner with the brilliantly talented Simone from TV Collective and look forward to building productive and long term new relationships.”
The TV Collective was established ten years to promote the creative and commercial value diversity adds to the British TV and film industries.
“This is an exciting opportunity for BAME producers to really grow their businesses and we’re very proud to be involved,” added Simone Pennant MBE, Founder at The TV Collective.
“Fundamental ways of increasing diversity, particularly at senior levels both on and off screen is not only by diversifying the content, and decision makers but also importantly, who is making it. Ben really gets this. He understands the importance of giving producers a creative outlet and the opportunity to grow as opposed to just offering BAME producers a job. It is so refreshing and inspiring to work with someone like Ben and his team who are forward-thinking, progressive but above all willing to put their money where their mouth is. I’m really excited to see what these talented production companies come up with and eventually watching the results on Channel 5.”
The programme is open to producers of a wider range of genres, ranging from specialist factual to features, drama and documentaries.
Producers wishing to submit their companies can do so via: https://www.thetvcollective.org and have until 28th July.
