France Télévisions Launches New Doc Co-Funding Initiative

The international documentary co-production unit of France Télévisions has partnered with six other public broadcasters for a funding initiative for documentaries.

CBC in Canada, ZDF in Germany, Channel 4 in the U.K., SVT in Sweden, ORF in Austria and ABC in Australia are also on board the initiative, which was unveiled at Sunny Side of the Doc. The scheme is looking for documentary specials that focus on ancient civilizations, archaeology, paleontology, geology and space exploration; or that explore how scientific innovation can help save the planet.

An international jury composed of representatives from each broadcaster will select three projects, two in the first category and one in the second. The call for projects runs through October 14. The winners will be revealed at the World Congress of Science and Factual Producers, which will take place in Glasgow from November 28 to December 1.

This new initiative expands on France Télévisions’ Global Doc co-production scheme, which was launched in 2019 and has led to 20 international collaborations to date. It is looking for content that features epic scientific adventures, international appeal and emotionally resonant stories for a global audience. Gender equality is also a main consideration.