Corp seeks "big, bold and innovative" concepts
TORONTO – CBC has brought back the Format Incubator for a third year in a move that it says underscores its commitment to creating original unscripted television formats.
A collaborative venture between CBC, Warner Bros. International Television Production (WBITVP) and the independent production community in Canada, Canadian producers are invited to submit ideas for original primetime unscripted formats with strong Canadian and international appeal from now through April 23.
Format Incubator is open to applicants with all levels of experience, from students to established producers, and will support up to three new unscripted pilots through the development and production process, including primetime broadcast on CBC. Submissions must be original, non-derivative primetime entertainment formats that are fun and family-friendly with the potential for multiple seasons and broad appeal for domestic and international audiences. Chosen formats will benefit from development and creative editorial support from CBC and WBITVP, and an expedited distribution process to bring their concept to the international market.
The first program to come out of the Format Incubator initiative was Frantic Films’ factual series The Stats Of Life which debuted as a pilot (1×60) in spring 2016, followed by a four episode half-hour series in fall 2017. The series has now been renewed for a second season.
Under New Management, produced by Proper Television and hosted by Dragons’ Den investor Arlene Dickinson, was selected as the winning format for the second year. Two back-to-back specials premiered in November 2016.
“The first two rounds of the Format Incubator have produced two original factual series that have resonated with Canadians, both through broadcast and social engagement: The Stats Of Life and Under New Management”, said Jennifer Dettman, CBC’s executive director of unscripted content, in the news release. “We’re thrilled to announce that they have both been renewed after successful runs on the schedule in 2017, and are now being shopped on the global stage at MIPTV. For the 2018 Format Incubator, we are looking for primetime entertainment concepts that feel big, bold and innovative and appeal to the core CBC audience."
Full submission details are available at cbc.ca/formatincubator
