PCCW sets-up HK$300 million Independent Productions Fund

Could lead to greater variety of quality programs in Hong Kong.

PCCW said the fund for the acquisition of local independent productions is a bid to support Hong Kong’s production industry, as well as offering a greater variety of TV program choices for Hong Kong viewers.

PCCW’s total investment plan across the first six years of operations is estimated at some HK$1.3 billion, a substantial part of which will be invested in programming and production. It has also set aside a pool of funds to be accessed by local creative talents. The Independent Productions Fund forms part of PCCW's preparation for its Free TV service.

As a start, PCCW intends to invest HK$300 million in the fund, and is open to further phases in the future upon a favorable response. It aims to develop about 60 TV movies and mini-series titles.

This fund aims to draw together the local creative industry and independent producers who share the same vision of bringing viewers more quality choices in TV programs. PCCW claims the fund will unleash the potential of cross-media talents in films and TV and harness the creativity of independent producers in Hong Kong.

The selection criteria will be based upon originality, creativity, production and content quality, and viability of the proposal. Upon receiving a proposal and confirming its production budget, PCCW will facilitate and support the production process. It aims to complete the evaluation process within 60 days of receipt of a comprehensive proposal.

Based in Hong Kong, PCCW holds interests in telecommunications, media, IT solutions, property development and investment, and other businesses.