PactUS plots digital expansion

The US arm of independent producers association Pact has forged a new alliance with a group representing producers of web content. The digital expansion also sees PactUS team up with a US law firm that specialises in digital programming deals.

David Lyle (left), the former Fox exec who heads PactUS, is expanding the breadth of the US trade body’s activities and setting up a digital hub for member prodcos. The news comes as US unscripted producers increasingly look to digital content as cable channels rein in costs and programming revenues decline.

Specifically, PactUS has teamed with Global Online Video Association (GOVA) and the law firm, Ginsburg Daniels Kallis.

The digital hub will help member prodcos learn about digital opportunities. Existing GOVA members include include Jukin Media, Machinima, Maker Studios, NewForm Digital, MiTu and Whistle Sports and Pact has 45 US indie members.

Ginsburg Daniels Kallis brought PactUS and Gova together. Phil Daniels, partner at the law firm said: ”We are excited by the coming together of traditional and digital players, and the opportunities for learning and collaboration that will come out of this initiative.”

“This initiative brings opportunities to both producers and platforms,” added  PactUS president David Lyle. “It helps to level the playing field, giving our members with strong backgrounds in linear television the necessary resources to compete in an evolving digital content marketplace.

“We are striving to restore this important sector of the dynamic independent production ecosystem back to financial health.”

Jon Taylor, executive director of GOVA said: “As the lines between digital and traditional producers continue to blur, an alliance between PactUS and GOVA will serve to strengthen the overall producer community.”