Indielabhas unveiled the launch of Indielab Content Futures 2026, a reimagined strategic accelerator programme for independent production companies navigating systemic disruption across the UK TV and content sector. Applications for the programme are now open.
The programme marks a major evolution of Indielab’s long-running support initiative to strengthen the UK sector, reflecting the realities of a market shaped by reduced commissioning, shifting audience behaviour, increased development risk and the need for broader commercial pathways. The new programme is designed to strengthen the future of TV business in the UK.
Content Futures 2026 is designed for established independent production companies, including Indielab alumni, who are reassessing their content strategy, revenue mix and operating models in response to a reshaped landscape.
Content Futures 2026 is supported by long-term funding partners the BBC, Screen Scotland and Channel 4, alongside content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment; leading media and entertainment law firm Harbottle & Lewis LLP; and Nyman Libson Paul LLP, with Screen Scotland funding three bursary places for Scottish independent production companies.
Key industry consultants and contributors include Dan Taylor-Watt (leading AI Consultant), Cathy Payne (CEO, Banijay Rights), Grace Wilson (COO, Left Bank Pictures), Emile Nawagamuwa (Commissioning Editor – Factual, UKTV), and Jason Mitchell (Founder, The Connected Set) alongside a broader group of senior industry figures.
As this is a new programme for a redefined market, it is also open to Indielab’s alumni network of more than 170 companies, who stand to benefit from strengthening their strategic approach to market shifts as well as current challenges and opportunities.
As with previous programmes, the Content Futures 2026 cohort will include scripted and nonscripted independent production companies, with at least 50% of participants based in the UK’s nations and regions, reflecting Indielab’s ongoing commitment to diversity and resilient production hubs across the UK.
Indielab Content Futures 2026 will run across a series of in-person blocks in London, supported by virtual sessions between modules. Each participating company will receive two places on the programme.
Applications are now open to UK-based independent production companies that are not owned by a broadcaster or major studio, working across scripted and non-scripted genres. Indielab actively encourages applications from under-represented groups. For more information or to apply, visit the Indielab website.
Louise Acheson, Head of Business & Market Development at Screen Scotland said: "Like most companies, Scottish independent producers are navigating a period of market change and challenge, with many actively adapting their businesses to new commercial realities.
“Our continued partnership with Indielab, through funding bursary places, reflects our strategic commitment to business growth of the screen sector in Scotland. The evolved Content Futures 2026 programme will help ambitious Scottish indies access high-level, forward-thinking support that strengthens decision-making, supports diversification and builds long-term resilience across the sector.”
Victoria Powell, Founder and CEO of Indielab, said: “The challenge facing independent producers right now isn’t creativity or ambition – it’s strategic adjustment. Content Futures 2026 has been designed to help indies step back, make clearer strategic decisions and reset their businesses for the market they’re actually operating in today.”