Indielab starts 2019 scheme

Indielab, the organisation behind the accelerator programme for UK-based independent producers, is expanding its offerings as it begins accepting applications for its 2019 scheme.

Victoria Powell

The business growth programme, launched in 2015 by producer Victoria Powell with backing from the Mayor of London through Film London, will again offer 15 up-and-coming production companies a tailored consulting process designed by the sector for the sector.

It will provide the firms with growth masterclasses and global market insight while aiming to make them investment-ready.

A number of other strands for the programme are also in the works, with announcements due over the coming months. Broadcasters including the BBC and Channel 4 support IndieLab schemes.

Powell said: “Now more than ever, the content market is changing rapidly, with domestic spending generally accepted as flat and marked increases in global spend expected.

“The UK sector continues to look like a very good place for indies to do business, albeit under a somewhat changing set of rules. No matter which corner of the UK you are based in, there are significant opportunities out there for indies that want to grow. At Indielab, we aim to give UK indies the edge by connecting them to the right insight, intel and network to achieve these successes.”

In 2017, Indielab helped to guide three companies – Antidote Productions, Midnight Oil Pictures and Awesome Media & Investment – into investment and first-look distribution deals.

To be eligible, applying indies must be founded and registered in the UK, with less than £5m (US$6.75m) revenue in non-scripted and £8m if the company can demonstrate some scripted production.

Participants must have had at least two or three broadcast credits within the last three years and must be 75% independently owned. Prodcos backed or owned by broadcasters do not qualify.