Indielab Accelerator has announced the 2021 cohort for the sixth edition of its growth programme for independent TV production companies looking to achieve scale and develop their businesses.

This year saw a record number of responses to the scheme, with the final selection of 15 as follows: Big Little Fish Television, Black Camel Pictures (whose recent credits include Annika, pictured), Blazing Griffin Pictures, ClearStory, Freedom Scripted Entertainment, Kailash Films, King of Sunshine Productions, Little Bird Films, Nuwave Pictures, Rare TV, Rooster TV, Strident Media, Triongl, Vox Pictures and Wall of Entertainment.

The chosen line-up reflects the most diverse cohort yet in terms of gender, ethnicity, genre and geographical location of the founders and companies.

The scheme, which was founded in 2015, is backed this year by three bursary programmes: the first, a diversity scheme for three indies run by founders from diverse backgrounds, sponsored by Sony Pictures Television and further bursaries for Welsh independent production companies with support from Welsh Government funding through Creative Wales and Scottish companies funded by Screen Scotland. The overall programme is supported by its long-term partners Channel 4 and the BBC.

Victoria Powell, founder and CEO of Indielab, said: “The marked increase in applications we received this year demonstrates very clearly how much indies want to connect and supercharge their growth out of the slowdown brought about by Covid.

“The range, energy and diversity across this new cohort at perhaps one of the most challenging times the TV industry has ever experienced is testament to the strength of the sector. Our programmes are continuously evolving and innovating with targeted and timely support for indie founders providing impactful and enduring takeaways for every participant through the Indielab Connect platform.”

The 2021 programme has been redesigned to deliver a mix of virtual events and the finale Indie Showcase, which takes place in-person in September. The programme includes masterclasses from more than 50 industry experts and consultants.