Adrian Dunbar's Coastal Ireland: produced by Belfast indie Afro-Mic Productions
Channel 4 has unveiled the nine nations and regions indies taking part in its Business Boost scheme, which includes two apiece from Belfast and Leeds.
The participating indies are: Afro-Mic Productions - recently named 'small indie of the year' at the Edinburgh TV Festival - and Waddell Media (both Belfast), Candour and Clockwork Films (Leeds), Glasgow-based Finestripe, Zandaland (Liverpool), Kailash Films (Cardiff), Drummer Television (Bristol) and Brighton’s Bowled Over Media.
Funded by 4Skills and 4Producers, the scheme will provide training and business support to the small- to medium-sized indies, with a business advisor assessing each companies in detail to determine their training and support needs.
The companies will then receive a bespoke package of support that will comprise elements such as access to skills training, business sustainability consultancy and freelance support, including development producers or production finance professionals.
C4 managing director of the nations and regions Sinéad Rocks said the scheme aims “to make a real difference to production companies as they continue to negotiate tough economic conditions”.
She adds: “Smaller businesses are often at much greater risk during more difficult times so it’s really important Channel 4 does what it can to support them.”
C4 is also hosting an open day next week in Darlington to showcase a collaboration with the North East Industries Partnership (NESIP) to develop talent in the region and drive up commissions.
The initiative will include activities to support indies and freelancers and people starting out in TV.
The event, which will have some virtual elements that can be accessed remotely, takes place on Wednesday 25 October.
