Cinedigm preps OTT nets with LA start-up

US indie distributor Cinedigm is to mine its content library to launch a slate of niche OTT channels.

The distributor is working with LA-based tech start-up TV4 Entertainment to programme “at least one co-owned, on-demand, online channel” based on the Cinedigm library.

This will be a preschool-, kids- and tweens-focused channel that rolls out on a TV4 online distribution platform.

By the end of 2015, the partners said they could launch as many as 30 channels. TV4 already offers networks including the All Warrior Network, Throwback Television, the Undisputed Champion Network, Motorland and The Clairity Project, and is also prepping others on drones, space and football.

Content aggregator Cinedigm, meanwhile, has been expanding into the OTT business with thematic channels from its library including doc-themed Docurama, Comic Con-themed CONtv, a faith and family-themed net with the DOVE Foundation and a partnership with Wizard World launching next month.

“Our plan is to create a diversified portfolio of digital networks, launching several narrowcast channels each with a customised business model that maximises the potential for success,” said Cinedigm’s chairman and CEO, Chris McGurk.

TV4 is the brainchild of former Fox Digital Media exec and Hulu launch general manager Jon Cody, who runs the business as CEO; ex-Relativity Media digital senior VP Nick Turner, who is head of content; former Fox software developers Joe Devon and Robert Cuadra, who are CIO and CTO, respectively; and tech exec Lucas Meyers.

Former UK comedy talent producer and agent Paul Duddridge is head of entertainment and ex-ROAR head of reality TV Erik Stone leads content acquisition.

TV4 is not affiliated to Swedish broadcaster TV4 Group.