Pacific broadcasters affiliated with PCBL are invited to submit proposals for the development and production of pilot episodes of original, replicable format-based series.
Storytelling is a superpower, and Pacific people expressing their own narratives, experiences, and cultures on their terms not only protects intellectual property and cultural identity, but it also fosters community and connection.
Through its flagship Pasifika On Air initiative, Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Limited (PCBL) is inviting its affiliated Pacific broadcasters to submit proposals for the development and production of pilot episodes of original, replicable format-based series.
Pasifika On Air is a contestable fund for PCBL’s Pacific broadcasting partners, designed to enable the creation of Pacific stories for a global audience.
Nicole Rex Taofinu’u, General Manager – Pasifika On Air, says it is the only programme of its kind, and offers a platform for the development of Pacific stories told in a Pacific way.
“In the upcoming 2025/2026 round of funding, each successful applicant will be awarded NZD $75,000 to produce a minimum of three pilot episodes and an associated ‘format bible’, to contribute to the creation of original intellectual property, which is capable of being licensed, adapted, or reproduced across Pacific nations and its global diaspora,” Nicole explains.
All funding agreements must be executed and delivered by June 30, 2026, and delivery schedules will be confirmed in consultation with PCBL.
This content will be produced with exclusive rights granted to PCBL Pasifika TV for first play, after which it will be distributed on the local broadcaster’s platform.
Purpose of the initiative
Nicole says the initiative seeks to grow Pacific-owned intellectual property, while strengthening production capability within the Pacific broadcaster community, and support the development of content designed for adaptation across multiple Pacific Island markets.
“It also aims to position selected projects for future funding, commercial partnerships, and conference showcases, while encouraging regional collaboration and content exchange,” Nicole says.
“PCBL plans to select up to three pilot-format projects, from submissions from our affiliated Pacific broadcasters for the 2025/2026 round.
“Our Pacific people have so many remarkable stories to be told, and I cannot wait to see our broadcasters’ creativity shine in this round.”
Visit Pasifika On Air for more information on how to submit a Request for Proposals (RFP).
