About
BBC ALBA is a contemporary, forward-looking channel with Gaelic at its heart. Our outlook is broad, and our ambitions are big. We want to move, excite and connect with audiences across Scotland and beyond with strong human stories and unique perspectives.Authenticity, relatability and a passion for story-telling are key.
This call-out is focused on two areas:
DATES FOR SUBMISSIONS
Final submissions and any questions on anything contained in this Commissioning Round should be addressed to Jennifer MacKenzie: bbcalbacommissioning@bbc.co.uk
PUBLISHING PRIORITIES
We want to maximise the opportunities for viewers to find our content. So, we’re looking for distinctive, eye-catching content fordigital–first iPlayer plays.
We’re also seeking primetime content for the linear schedule which will stand out on iPlayeras catch-up.
We would also like to see original proposals for the festive schedule. Heart, warmth and wit are crucial for this special time of year. Think about emotive content that can bring audiences together. But avoid duplicating formats from previous years.
FORMATS AND DURATIONS
We are open to proposals for short series.
We will take a flexible approach to durations. However, programmes of 60 or 45 and up to 20 minutes for digital–first are preferred.
We are also seeking innovative approaches to how content is packaged and presented as digital-first iPlayer formats. As on the linear channel, impact is key. Short-form programmes should be conceived as brand-builders not schedule-fillers.
At the other end of the scale, we welcome proposals for ambitious feature-length singledocumentaries that have a cinematic/festival life cycle before appearing on linear TV. However, it’s expected that feature documentaries will either already have co-funding attached or will have a credible co-funding finance plan in place.
SUBMISSIONS
Creative Scotland’s Broadcast Content Fund https://www.creativescotland.com/funding/funding-programmes/targeted-funding/screen
Tax reliefs (via BFI tax credits certification)
https://www.bfi.org.uk/supporting-uk-film/british-certification-tax-relief
Creideasan Cìse BFI
https://www.bfi.org.uk/supporting-uk-film/british-certification-tax-relief