ABC & CBC in Joint Animation Initiative

National public broadcasters ABC (Australia) and CBC (Canada) have teamed up to launch the Kindred ABC/CBC Animation Collaboration, designed to nurture and support the kids’ production industry by funding new animated projects for children.

Through this initiative, ABC and CBC are looking for projects that feature a “fresh, innovative and artistic” animation style and will appeal to Australian and Canadian audiences alike. Core to any idea that will be considered by ABC and CBC are strong, unique and demonstrable senses of voice, story, setting and character.

ABC and CBC expect the diversity of the story world and characters to be reflected in the creative team and that integrated and meaningful collaboration will occur throughout the creative process.

The broadcasters are looking for two distinct types of animated projects: Those appealing to a tween audience (10 to 14 years old), with a female character-driven narrative or compelling ensemble cast, featuring ideas that speak to this age group with a focus on comedy, surrealism, fantasy quests and/or identity; and preschool projects that explore an aspect of early childhood development that is not well represented in the current landscape, with core values including comedy, kindness and empathy.

The source IP must originate from either Canada or Australia to qualify. Shortlisted ideas will receive funding for an initial stage of development. Projects that proceed beyond the initial stage will be eligible for further development from the ABC and CBC to be confirmed at that time.

Canadian and Australian creators and producers can apply beginning March 28 until May 16, 2022.

The new initiative builds on ABC and CBC’s existing creative and commercial collaboration.

Catherine Tait, president and CEO of CBC/Radio-Canada, said: “Kids’ content is essential to public service media. At CBC/Radio-Canada, we’re committed to finding and nurturing exceptional programming for children and youth, and the Kindred Animation Collaboration with ABC will help us do just that. In a world where content is exploding, these kinds of collaborations are essential to public broadcasters’ ability to compete.”

David Anderson, ABC’s managing director, said: “The Kindred Animation Collaboration is an exciting opportunity to further the ABC’s outstanding reputation for delivering engaging content for children and young people. In an increasingly crowded market, the ABC is committed to ensuring our world-class programming is not lost in the mix. We’re delighted to be partnering with the CBC in this important initiative which will undoubtedly deliver creative ideas aligned to our shared values and relevant to all our audiences.”