Funding for Special Broadcasting Programs

The Bavarian Regulatory Authority for New Media (BLM) supports companies based in Germany that produce small and medium-sized broadcasting programs in Bavaria. The aim is to support new and original productions that are particularly demanding in terms of content and design, focusing on cultural, ecclesiastical, social, and economic topics. Funding is provided for broadcasts, series, contributions, or segments that impress with extensive research efforts, professional journalistic preparation, and creative design. The available funds amount to up to two-thirds of the eligible direct and overhead costs and are granted as a one-time subsidy over a project period of twelve months. A prerequisite is that the production is broadcast for the first time in Bavaria and that the funding is fully utilized within the Free State. Selection takes place annually in autumn by the BLM’s Committee for Media Competence and Content according to the criteria of topic relevance, production quality, design implementation, and social media support.

All authorized providers, provider companies, and associations under the Bavarian Media Act, as well as approved suppliers with a linear radio or television offering, are eligible. The funding rate of 66% applies to production costs, direct costs, and proportional overhead costs and excludes general administrative expenses, management and satellite costs, as well as technical transmission fees. Applications with detailed program and project descriptions, cost calculations, and financing plans must be submitted electronically to the BLM by the deadline in autumn. The BLM reserves the right to adjust the number of grants per fiscal year and according to the tender situation. The funding aims to sustainably strengthen the diversity and quality of local and regional broadcasting offerings in Bavaria.