UK-based Indielab Accelerator has announced the 2021 cohort for its sixth edition, with 15 production firms joining the scheme.

The Accelerator provides early and mid-stage production companies with advice on how to hone their business vision and explore growth opportunities.

The 2021 entrants are: Big Little Fish Television, Black Camel Pictures, 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 15 participants reflect the most diverse cohort yet in terms of gender, ethnicity, genre and geographical location of the founders and companies, according to Indielab.

The scheme has three bursary schemes: 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 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 re-formatted to deliver a blended mix of virtual events and the finale Indie Showcase, which takes place in-person in September.