MDA, Screenwest launch factual, kids funds

Singapore funding agency the Media Development Authority (MDA) has struck a deal with Australian counterpart ScreenWest to provide a new fund for kids and documentary producers.

The deal will encourage Australian and Singaporean producers to co-develop projects with US$90,000 available for new ideas. This follows a series of similar arrangements launched by the MDA to promote Singapore as an Asian media production hub.

Meanwhile, the MDA has struck a major deal with Hong Kong broadcaster YR Asia Satellite. The broadcaster, which will launch on cable operator i-Cable, has acquired 100 hours of lifestyle and factual content from Singapore producers. This is the largest bulk purchase of Singapore Mandarin factual programming.