Channel 4 is to provide support and specialist training to smaller independent production companies based in the Nations and Regions (N&R) to help them grow their business during the challenges of the current economic climate.  

The 4Skills Business Boost will offer targeted intervention, initially offering up to six indies expert guidance and training, starting in autumn 2023.

Each business will undergo a detailed assessment with a business advisor to identify their training and support needs. 

Indies will have access to the 4Producers, 4Skills and Indie Growth Fund teams, and will work directly with the Channel’s in house expertise in distribution, IP sales and acquisitions.

Following the initial business development consultation, a bespoke package of support will be created for each indie, which can include:

• consultancy with industry experts in fields relating to business sustainability, such as finance, strategy or human relations

• access to skills training courses for company leaders and their teams

• freelance support such as development producers or production finance support, to help the indie generate additional business

• support to enable the indie to make changes to the company’s structure or processes

• access to business intelligence, data and markets

Rebecca Thompson, Channel 4’s head of indie relations, said: “We’re acutely aware of how tough things are for indies right now so it’s important we offer practical support which can help them to negotiate the challenging market conditions

Channel 4’s managing director nations & regions, Sinead Rocks added: “It’s of paramount importance that we support independent production companies as they face some very serious and challenging conditions.

“These challenges pose a disproportionate threat to smaller indies in the Nations and Regions so it’s vital that we do what we can to support those businesses which could be at most risk.”

Business Boost will be run by the 4Skills and 4Producers teams, with funding from 4Skills and support from the Indie Growth Fund, Acquisitions and additional teams as needed.

More information can be found here.