The BBC is seeking returning entertainment formats for a new YouTube-first destination aimed primarily at 16-34s. Provisionally titled BBC Showground, the channel will offer comedy-led entertainment designed specifically for YouTube, rather than scaled-down versions of traditional television programmes.
Around six UK production companies will each receive £5,000 to develop at least one returning format. Following the development process, the BBC plans to commission at least three companies to produce formats comprising five or more episodes.
Episodes should run for more than 15 minutes and have a production budget of £30,000-£35,000 apiece. Content may also be made available on BBC iPlayer.
The BBC is looking for “bold, returnable” ideas that are uplifting, accessible and capable of building a community around them. Formats should be built around a clear, repeatable mechanic and bring together creators, familiar BBC personalities, emerging comedians and members of the public in unexpected combinations.
The broadcaster said it wants formats that reveal character and chemistry rather than relying solely on the existing profile of their participants. Each episode should tell a self-contained story, ruling out elimination formats and ideas dependent on audiences following an ongoing competition. Potential executions could range from games, quizzes, improv and performance formats to location-led challenges involving communities, workplaces and institutions around the UK.
The BBC cited YouTube formats including Chicken Shop Date, Hot Ones Versus, Game Changer, Make Some Noise, Stand-Up on the Spot, Keep the Meter Running (pictured) and Recess Therapy as creative reference points.
It stressed that these examples were intended to illustrate tone, mechanics and audience experience rather than invite imitation. The brief excludes conventional panel and game shows featuring digital talent, straight stand-up or sketch compilations, loosely structured personality-led content and formats dependent on a single creator or collective. The BBC is also not seeking ideas driven by “noise or aggression”.
Applications are open to UK independent production and digital companies with recent experience of making returning entertainment for younger audiences and delivering mid- or long-form programming for YouTube, an SVOD service or another major digital platform. Creators can participate in partnership with an eligible production company.
Applications close at noon on 21 September. Companies are expected to be selected for paid development during the week beginning 5 October, with final commissioning decisions scheduled for the week beginning 23 November. Production and delivery are due to begin in March 2027.
