ITVS, PBS in JV to Support Indie Producers

ARLINGTON/SAN FRANCISCO: The Independent Digital Distribution Lab, a joint venture from Independent Television Service (ITVS) and PBS, has been set up to explore revenue-generating models for independent filmmakers and public television.

Some 50 independent titles will be distributed over the next six months through PBS distribution partnerships, such as download-to-own and ad-based video sites. "Independent producers need support securing revenue value and exposure for their work, and as public television broadens its presence online, we want to be sure indie producers are part of that effort," said Sally Jo Fifer, the president of ITVS. "We’re working to build a long-term strategic path to deliver audience and revenue for all partners while continuing to provide the important public service that comes from independently produced public media."

This is the latest in a series of efforts from PBS and ITVS to expand distribution outlets to broadband-connected audiences. PBS recently launched a section on Hulu.com for the series Independent Lens. It currently includes seven films from the series and will become home to many of the Lab’s projects. Additionally, 27 Lab projects are available for streaming on SnagFilms.com, and six films are in the Xbox and Zune marketplaces.

"Bringing innovation, perspectives and diversity through independent film to the American public is essential to PBS’s mission," said Andy Russell, the senior VP of PBS Ventures. "PBS Distribution is building branded partnerships with major online distributors as well as making significant enhancements to our own distribution on PBS.org to ensure public television content reaches the widest possible audiences. The Independent Digital Distribution Lab will foster partnerships with content providers to expand the range of online experiences for consumers and generate revenues shared among all parties to create more public media content."