Cinedigm preps OTT channels

US distributor Cinedigm and LA-based internet TV start-up TV4 Entertainment have partnered to launch a series of OTT digital networks, with the first set to be focused on children’s programming.

Cinedigm will use its film and TV library to provide shows to a co-owned, on-demand, online channel that will be distributed through TV4 Entertainment’s video distribution service. Cinedigm’s catalogue includes programming from the likes of National Geographic Channel, Discovery, Scholastic and Hallmark.

The channel, set to launch later this year, is the latest OTT move by Cinedigm, which already operates Docurama, a channel dedicated to documentaries. It is also preparing CONtv, a Comic Con-themed channel in partnership with Wizard World, and family-focused Dove Movie Channel is to launch later this year.

TV4 claims to reach 100 million US households and more than 300 million devices with its online channels, and aims to offer 30 networks by the end of 2015, in addition to existing nets such as the All Warrior Network, Throwback Television and Motorland.

Chris McGurk, Cinedigm chairman and CEO, said it wanted to to “create a diversified portfolio of digital networks, launching several narrowcast channels each with a customised business model.”

Jon Cody, founder and CEO of TV4 Entertainment, added: “Cinedigm’s vast library coupled to TV4 Entertainment’s nimble platform will allow us to quickly and efficiently test several genres and build substantial value for both companies.”