Bomanbridge picks up Arcadia factual catalogue, agrees IP development deal

Viking Quest America

MIPCOM: Singapore- and UK-based production and distribution company Bomanbridge Media has acquired the international distribution rights to Canadian company Arcadia Entertainment’s 500-hour factual catalogue.

The initial five-year agreement covers all media, with a particular focus on international digital sales and new commercial opportunities across streaming platforms, AVoD, FAST, educational and emerging media. Canada-only sales will remain under Arcadia’s control.

As part of the deal, announced on day one of Mipcom, Bomanbridge will also help Arcadia finance, develop and coproduce new IP, while getting exclusive first-look opportunities on future Arcadia projects. Series included in the the distribution pact include America Over the Edge, Free Masons and Viking Quest America.

The first joint development project, How We Got, is a 10×60’ returnable science and technology series launching with Canada’s Blue Ant Media. Bomanbridge is providing financial and creative development support and Arcadia will produce the series for Blue Ant.

How We Got explores the unexpected connections, reinventions and revivals that have shaped the modern world, revealing how yesterday’s inventions and technological breakthroughs continue to define our lives today.

Sonia Fleck, CEO of Bomanbridge Media, said: “Investing into our partnership with [president and creative director] John Wesley and Arcadia provides a strong opportunity to build a long-term strategy around this evergreen catalogue, generating new digital revenue, in addition to a smart collaboration on new IP development and coproductions.

“The opportunity to support How We Got from the development and production stage is an important first step in that broader vision and reflects Bomanbridge’s role as a collaborative partner with producers as we navigate increasingly complex funding models.”