The BBC has confirmed what it is billing as a “strategic partnership” with YouTube that will see the British broadcaster produce original content for the video platform.
The landmark deal — first reported last week — will include investment in YouTube-first programming and the launch of new YouTube channels aimed at children and young adults.
The BBC will also look to use YouTube to showcase what it describes as “BBC moments that bring the U.K. together” and promote is linear channels starting with the Winter Olympics in February.
The deal has been seen as part of a major effort by the BBC to deal with the challenge of YouTube when it comes to younger audiences, who have been increasingly turning to the platform for both entertainment and news. In December, ratings agency Barb reported that the number of viewers watching YouTube (52 million) surpassed that of the BBC’s combined channels (51 million) for the first time.
Alongside original content, the partnership will also see the BBC and YouTube support the government’s Creative Industries Sector Plan by investing in creators across the U.K., alongside upskilling and partnering with creators and established TV producers who want to create and commission digital-first content.
Led by the National Film and Television School, 150 media professionals will be invited to develop their YouTube skills with a series of workshops and events.
“It’s essential that everyone gets value from the BBC, and this groundbreaking partnership will help us connect with audiences in new ways,” said BBC director-general Tim Davie. “We’re building from a strong start and this takes us to the next level, with bold homegrown content in formats audiences want on YouTube and an unprecedented training programme to upskill the next generation of YouTube creators from across the UK. Importantly, this partnership also allows new audiences different routes into BBC services like BBC iPlayer and Sounds.”
Added Pedro Pina, VP EMEA YouTube: “We are delighted to partner with the BBC to redefine the boundaries of digital storytelling. This partnership translates the BBC’s world-class content for a digital-first audience, ensuring its cultural impact reaches a younger, more global audience. Beyond the content, our first-of-its-kind training programme represents a deep investment in the UK’s creative pipeline designed to empower the next generation of British talent to lead the global creator economy. In doing so, we are not just telling the stories of today; we are building the stage for the storytellers of tomorrow.”
Last week, the FT reported that the BBC would also be able to generate a profit from any partnership with YouTube by advertising on programs shown outside of the U.K. As a public service broadcaster, it does not earn money through advertising on home soil, instead charging a license fee to British audiences for access to its content.