BBC Studios launches European Scripted Fund, hires Ben Donald to scout IP
What's the deal? BBC StudiosDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has launched a European Scripted FundDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → to source and develop original scripted content from across the continent. The corporate fund's size and target genres are undisclosed.
The hire: BBC Studios appointed Ben Donald, executive producer of "The Mallorca Files," to identify and develop intellectual property for future projects. He takes on the role alongside his existing work at his production company, Cosmopolitan PicturesDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →.
What's the endgame? The fund is designed to back creators developing IP that can be adapted into television series. By investing earlier, BBC Studios aims to gain access to concepts sooner and shape their creative direction from inception.
What's Donald's remit? He will collaborate with writers, producers, and creators across Europe to find stories with international appeal. "The Mallorca Files," a co-production between Cosmopolitan Pictures and BritBox InternationalDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, gives him experience in European production and distribution.
Why now? The move comes as the international television market grows more competitive, with strong demand for distinctive, culturally relevant content. BBC Studios, the commercial arm of the British public broadcaster, wants to diversify its acquisition strategy beyond traditional commissions.
The signal: By empowering hands-on producers like Donald to scout nascent IP, BBC Studios is positioning itself to find breakout hits early. The focus on European storytelling reflects the region's growing importance as a source of drama and comedy for global platforms.
Read more: thechenabtimes.com
Image credit: jai Mansson's photography.
