Nine Ambitious UK Indies Selected For International Development Programme

The Research Centre (TRC) have announced that it has selected nine ambitious UK independent production companies for its successful International Development Programme. The Programme, now in its third year, is designed to provide bespoke assistance to independent production companies to develop their knowledge and help make those all-important industry contacts in the overseas TV market.
Talent from all over Britain and Ireland is represented in the programme. Already well established and highly regarded within their own territories, TRC's bespoke programme will provide them with unique training and guidance, not to mention unsurpassed access to the all-important media landscape of North America. As a result of the 2006-7 programme's successful foray to the west coast, this year's group will also be heading to Hollywood, on top of more established routes to New York, Washington DC and Toronto, Canada, meeting key broadcasters, co-production partners and related strategic players.
In addition to the North American component, TRC provide informative monthly sessions in which delegates can listen to industry experts speak on rights exploitation, co-productions, distribution and pitching to the top five international territories.
Amongst the candidates selected is David Strachan, MD of Tern Television. Tern is currently enjoying the success of one of its largest ever domestic commissions - 'Great British Journeys' for BBC Two. David said: "The North American market is a tough nut to crack, so we are hoping that the experience will offer the exposure Tern needs in order to break this market. Tern is at a key point in its development and TRC have supported us every step of the way. We are sure this programme will further fuel our international ambitions."
Agnes Wilkie, who heads up the International Programme said: "With so much overseas interest in original British formats, we are helping UK indies capitalise on this, giving these companies all-important global exposure. The programme affords them the crucial opportunities in these traditionally hard-to-break markets."
(DS)