Sky has unveiled a new program aimed at promoting diversity within the independent production community.
The initiative seeks to support diverse-owned and led independent production companies in creating content for Sky’s factual channels. The primary objective is to diversify the range of narratives and perspectives presented in Sky’s factual programming, including boxsets and premium documentaries.
Financial and Developmental Support
Under this program, selected companies will have the opportunity to receive at least £15,000 to help develop their program ideas for Sky Documentaries. The most compelling proposals will advance to fully funded development stages. This initiative represents Sky’s commitment to inclusivity and the amplification of underrepresented voices in the media industry.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for the program, production companies must be diverse-owned or led. This includes having founders, owners, or senior management creatives from ethnic minorities, or those who are deaf, disabled, or neurodivergent. Interested companies are encouraged to apply for the chance to collaborate with Sky in bringing innovative and culturally relevant factual content to audiences.
Comprehensive Support and Mentorship
The initiative does not only provide financial aid but also offers a six-month mentorship journey with the Sky Documentaries team. This includes monthly pitch sessions and personalized feedback from a commissioning team member. Sky is dedicated to offering tailored support, potentially extending to additional resources like experienced producers, writers, or editors to assist in the development process.
Poppy Dixon, the Director of Documentaries & Factual at Sky, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its aim to foster inclusivity and ensure that diverse voices are heard and represented on Sky Documentaries. The program seeks to empower diverse-led production companies through financial support, mentorship, and collaboration, ensuring a richer and more varied factual programming lineup for Sky audiences.
News source: https://careers.sky.com/about
