In a bid to increase the range of diverse audiences and target smaller production companies, BBC Radio is set to launch a new indie development fund, backing independent audio production companies to showcase new and diverse talent across the UK.
The BBC has made various commitments to highlight diversity in the UK. In 2020, the BBC increased the fund to £2m to support companies, during the pandemic. Supporting 96 companies, enabling them to produce content for various BBC channels. In 2021, the BBC aims to fund 50 companies, reducing the fund to its original quota of £1m, aiming for a turnover of £10m to be made back into BBC pockets.
The £250,000 fund will be allocated annually to successful indie commissioners, allowing them to access BBC mentorship schemes and receive funding for specific projects or developments.
BBC Radio’s strategic priorities will focus on unheard voices outside of London; supporting smaller production companies, strengthening their projects, and offering free NFTS training places.
Funding will be allocated to a wide range of mediums within the creative sectors, showcasing projects from many genres like pop, classical, speech, and podcasting.
The BBC’s Chief content officer, Charlotte Moore said “This development fund will support indies with their plans, feeding directly into the BBC’s commitments to champion new talent, increase diversity and be more representative of the UK as a whole.”
The five-point plan to display the range of voices across the UK saw the BBC moving their creative and journalist centers outside of London. Hoping to host and create a home for new talent and music in areas in the north. Increasing 50% of their network radio and music to the outside of London.
The BBC will relaunch the indie development fund on the 16th of November, to kickstart a new line of production and inclusivity within the industry.