INITIATIVE FOR FOUR PRODUCTION COMPANIES

FOUR Northern Ireland based production companies have announced that they are to benefit from a new initiative launched by LEDU, the small Business Agency for Northern Ireland, and UK broadcaster Channel 4.
The companies selected to participate on the Network Development Initiative are: Besom Productions, Double-Band Films, Extreme Productions and Green Inc Productions.
Devised on behalf of Channel 4 by The Research Centre for Television and Interactivity and LEDU, and endorsed by PACT (Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television), the Network Development Initiative aims to help the companies achieve more sustainable research and development, in addition, it will improve their access to the UK’s network broadcasters.
LEDU Chief Executive Chris Buckland said: “LEDU is delighted to be working with The Research Centre and Channel 4 on the Network Development Initiative which is offering support to the burgeoning Northern Ireland film and television sector. We believe this initiative will complement the good work being done by the Northern Ireland Film Commission in the development of broadcasters. It is especially encouraging to see a network channel championing such an initiative and actively seeking to encourage and develop programme ideas from Northern Ireland.”
Each company will employ a researcher for the six-month Initiative.
Delivered by The Research Centre, the Initiative will cover all related areas of programme research, beginning with an ‘immersion’ week at Channel 4’s offices in Glasgow and London.