SPH creates SG$25k fund for local creatives to produce 'innovative' videos

With the aim of supporting the local creative community that is affected by COVID-19 disruptions, Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) is looking for fresh and innovative concepts for short-form video content from all media/production companies. Through a call for proposals, SPH invites companies to submit their proposals for short-form video content and to receive funding for its production.

This was done in partnership with Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) under the SG$8 million Public Service Content (PSC) Fund, which was launched on 14 April to catalyse more production projects and support media professionals and freelancers during this period. As a commissioning partner under IMDA’s PSC Fund, SPH is committed to collaborate with local production companies to co-produce engaging and entertaining content for its audience, leveraging its multi-channel platforms.

According to SPH, local media and production companies could receive funding up to SG$25,000 if the proposal is selected. The call for proposals will close on 5 June 2020, and must be for videos that are at least 10 minutes long and should not exceed PG-13 classification in accordance with the Content Code for Over-the-Top, Video–on-demand and Niche Services.

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Just yesterday, SPH partnered with Google to grow digital advertising revenue, drive the search for subscription audiences in new platforms and develop the digital video content business. Both companies aim to work on reducing churn and friction with Google and experiment the delivery of innovative news experiences through video and audio content.

The media company has recently pushed out video content to keep audiences engaged during the circuit breaker period. On its digital platform #StayHomeWithSPH, the site contains video content across the SPH network from signature publications such as The Straits Times and Lianhe Zaobao, SPH magazines, SPH radio stations, and specially curated videos from various partners. Users can also visit the platform for the latest updates on the COVID-19 situation. 

Meanwhile since 2019, IMDA has launched various initiatives to support local talent. In December last year, IMDA set aside SG$20 million in its call for media fund partners to jointly support projects and provide access to opportunities in the region. As part of its efforts to uplift the capabilities of media talent and to enhance the vibrancy of Singapore’s media ecosystem, IMDA also partnered with HOOQ, CJ ENM Hong Kong, Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), and Tencent/VS Media for "Made with Singapore" content to raise the capabilities and expand the business networks of local media companies and talent.

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