UK public broadcaster the BBC is doubling down on its digital-first ambitions, unveiling two new initiatives that further underline its determination to reach younger audiences on the platforms where they already spend most of their time.
Following its recently announced strategic partnership with YouTube, the corporation has confirmed plans for a new BBC Three-led YouTube channel aimed squarely at 16–24-year-olds, alongside the return of BBC Creator Lab in 2026 with a new TikTok-focused strand developed in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
Together, the moves signal a step-change in how the public broadcaster is commissioning, developing and distributing content for Gen Z, blending platform-native formats with the BBC’s public service remit and editorial standards.
BBC Three is developing a new YouTube channel (working title Perspectives) designed to showcase conversation, empathy and debate through digital-native formats. The channel will focus on lived experience rather than news reporting, exploring themes such as relationships, identity, pop culture, lifestyle choices, social justice and the cost of living through structured dialogue and repeatable mechanics.
Two production companies will be commissioned to help shape the channel, each receiving around £1m to deliver at least 30 episodes over a 12-month period. Formats will run between 10 and 30 minutes and be designed specifically for YouTube discovery, engagement and watch time, with at least one of the selected companies expected to be based in the Nations or English regions.
While the BBC will manage publication and channel operations, producers are expected to play an active role in defining the creative voice of the channel, responding to audience data in real time and adapting formats based on performance.
Alongside BBC Three’s YouTube push, BBC Creator Lab is returning in 2026 with a new strand dedicated to gardening and horticulture creators, delivered in partnership with TikTok and the RHS. The initiative aims to uncover and develop a new generation of digital talent capable of making gardening, plants and nature relevant and accessible to younger audiences through social-first storytelling.
Up to 13 creators will be selected, which includes a BBC Creator Lab retreat in March 2026, training from BBC and TikTok teams, and access to commissioners. All participants will be commissioned to produce content at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May, with additional opportunities to film at RHS gardens such as Wisley.
Based on pitches developed during the programme, up to five creators could progress to on-screen opportunities across BBC television, including Gardeners’ World and RHS Chelsea Flower Show coverage, reinforcing the BBC’s growing use of social platforms as a pipeline for mainstream talent.
