Forty independent production companies will receive BBC funding and mentoring support across the UK this year.
The investment combines the Small Indie Fund and the Radio and Music Indie Development Fund, offering a total of £1.3m alongside mentoring and access to BBC commissioning teams to help businesses grow and develop new ideas.
A further four companies will also join a new Digital Accelerator programme, delivered with North East Screen Industries. Backed by £600,000, the scheme is focused on developing digital-first content producers in the North East, with ongoing editorial and business support.
The Small Indie Fund will support 29 companies, including 23 working in television and six in digital. Most are based outside London, with 83% located in the Nations and Regions, while 79% have at least two leaders from under-represented groups.
The Radio and Music Indie Development Fund will support 11 companies, all based outside London, with tailored mentoring from BBC commissioners over 12 months.
David Pembrey, Chief Operating Officer at BBC Content, said: “Partnering with a wide range of UK independent production companies is essential in delivering a distinctive, authentic content offer for our audiences.”
The BBC says further opportunities are being developed for unscripted production companies in Northern Ireland, building on previous initiatives.