Channel 4 launches all new Digital Commissioning brief targeted at ethnically diverse-led Indies

21 August 2023

With Channel 4.0 going from strength to strength this year, the YouTube Channel, which was voted Best Entertainment Channel at last month’s Broadcast Digital Awards, is looking to expand its production partner network with the creation of a new brief for ethnically diverse-led production companies.

Having amassed over 50 million views on YouTube to date the platform is on the hunt for ethnically diverse-led indies who have not worked with Channel 4.0 before and who have quirky and razor-sharp format ideas, with authentic talent relationships, and a deep understanding of Channel 4.0’s target audience.

The new brief is looking for ideas that could lead to a new six-part series to premiere on Channel 4.0’s YouTube channel as well as Tiktok, Instagram and Snap. The team are keen to receive ideas that incorporate established 4.0 talent or fresh faces within new social experiment formats.

Sacha Khari, Head of Digital Commissioning, said: “Collaboration and investment in compelling, genuine content tailored to 13–24-year-olds remains central to 4.0’s mission as is our meaningful commitment to grow our production network. This brief serves as a platform, extending the opportunity to prioritise exceptional Indies from ethnically diverse backgrounds, who have not yet worked with Channel 4.0. This marks yet another exciting milestone, and we can’t wait to receive the surge of immensely creative ideas that lie just beyond the horizon.”

Emma Hardy, Director of Commissioning Operations said: “As we grow our digital content diversifying our suppliers and supporting new digital producers is a significant priority for Channel 4. This new brief for those companies that haven’t yet worked with Channel 4.0 is a great way for us to continue to grow our impact in the independent production sector and work with companies and talent that we haven’t reached before.”

The full brief can be found here https://www.channel4.com/commissioning/channel-40-digital-commissioning-diversity-brief

Pitches should be sent to Digital Commissioning Executive, Kaio Grizzelle, and Digital Commissioning Editor, Evie Buckley by Friday 15th September.