Comcast/NBCU Strikes Indie Programming Deal

LOS ANGELES: Comcast and NBC Universal, in the midst of a regulatory review of their proposed merger, have struck a deal with the Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA) to create additional opportunities for independent producers.

The accord is intended to boost the programming opportunities for independents on NBCU’s broadcast and cable networks, as well as on Comcast Cable’s VOD and online platforms. The deal comes following IFTA chief Jean Prewitt’s February testimony in front of the House Judiciary Committee investigating the ramifications of the Comcast/NBCU deal. At the time, Prewitt, president and CEO of IFTA, said, "If allowed to go forward, the merger will give the American public far less choice in programming as more channels and distribution platforms are closed to independent content."

Comcast and NBCU have agreed to work with IFTA to schedule an annual development presentation for up to 200 independent producers to outline its scripted and unscripted reality programming needs. In addition, meetings will be arranged between creative executives from NBCU’s entertainment networks and qualified independent producers. The cable group has agreed to take at least 15 pitches and the broadcast group at least 20 pitches in the six-month period following each development presentation. Further, funds will be set aside to support the early development of new projects from independents. Comcast and NBCU will also facilitate the formal introductions of independent TV movie producers to advertisers. In addition, NBCU’s cable networks will take submissions for completed TV movies, mini-series or feature films from qualified independents at agreed-upon times, including at the AFM. Comcast Cable, meanwhile, will work with IFTA to develop a direct business relationship under which independent producers can license their content to Comcast Cable for distribution on new media platforms. The majority of the NBCU commitments will be valid for four years, beginning June 1, 2011, pending closure of the Comcast and NBCU joint venture.
 
“Comcast and NBCU chose to come to IFTA with this proposal, which we believe has the potential to create business opportunities for independent producers that have long wanted to produce for television in the United States again,” Prewitt said.  “This agreement is the result of Congress’ focus on the potential vulnerabilities of independents in this merger and the need to ensure that there are real opportunities for independent producers on the Comcast/NBC platforms. While there are no guarantees attached to this agreement, we are hopeful it will provide solid opportunities for independent producers and NBCU/Comcast to work together in the future, and that other vertically integrated media companies will also embrace it.”