The 7-Step Process for Securing a TV Show License
Licensing a TV show can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and tools, it can open up opportunities for global distribution. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to license your TV show.
Identifying Suitable Buyers
The first step in licensing your TV show is to identify the right buyers. Traditional TV networks, such as Bravo, MTV, VH1, OWN, TLC, are excellent for reality and unscripted shows aiming for large national audiences. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Tubi, on the other hand, have become major buyers, particularly interested in high-quality originals or licensed content that fills niche or global demand. Local or regional broadcasters may also be approached for second-window licensing.
Preparing Your Show for Distribution
A polished pitch package tailored to the buyer type is essential. This package should clearly present your show's concept, audience metrics, and unique selling propositions. It's also important to address any production or format requirements the buyer might have to ease content delivery and integration.
Leveraging Data and Market Trends
Understanding buyer strategies is crucial. For example, platforms like Netflix use data-driven acquisition strategies focusing on originals but selectively licensing attractive titles to ensure diverse catalogs and maximize ROI. Aligning your licensing proposals with these strategic priorities improves the chance of acquisition.
Using Industry Connections and Professional Guidance
Working with media groups or distributors who specialize in pitching and negotiating with specific buyer types can greatly aid in navigating complex contracts and competitive pitching environments.
A Professional Pitch Package
A professional pitch package should include a sizzle reel, poster, synopsis, episode summaries, and creator bios. The goal is to get them to watch the sizzle reel, and if it works, they'll ask for more.
Finding International Buyers
Finding international buyers requires understanding the content needs of different territories. This involves researching broadcasters and streamers in each target market.
The Licensing Agreement
Licensing means you grant a company the rights to broadcast your show for a specific time, territory, and platform, but you retain ultimate ownership. After the contract is signed, deliver all required materials on time and to the correct technical specifications to build a good reputation.
In conclusion, the "right" buyers are those whose distribution models, content strategies, and audience demographics match your TV show's attributes. Success requires well-prepared materials, strategic targeting of networks, streaming platforms, or local buyers, and the leveraging of market insights and professional networks.
Our global B2B marketplace is designed to help independent creators identify active buyers for their genre, see what deals are happening in real-time, and connect with the right decision-makers. With powerful market intelligence, creators can skip the guesswork and focus on making deals. The website also offers industry briefings, global TV+Film productions reviews, insights into micro-dramas and mobile-first storytelling, and analysis of Watch Time Wars and YouTube’s expansion. For a more in-depth guide, check out our seven-step guide: Understand What You're Actually Selling, Create an Irresistible Pitch Package, Get Your Legal Ducks in a Row, Identify and Research Potential Buyers, Master the Art of the Pitch, Negotiate the Licensing Agreement, and Manage Your Deals and Deliver Your Show. Connect with them on a human level, as they're not just buying a product; they're buying into your vision.
- To increase the chances of satellite television networks, streaming platforms, and local broadcasters acquiring your TV show, it's vital to develop a refined pitch package showcasing your show's unique selling points, audience metrics, and production details tailored to each potential buyer's preferences.
- By exploring industry connections and securing professional guidance from media groups or distributors, creators can streamline negotiations with the right buyers and navigate complex licensing agreements aimed at maximizing the global distribution of their TV show.
