Are there any restrictions on the types of businesses or industries that can apply for this initiative?
There is no restriction on the types of businesses or industries that can apply. We encourage all businesses to review the criteria on our landing page/beginning of application to ensure alignment with the initiative’s objectives.
Is there a certain stage of business development or growth that our company must be at to apply?
As part of the criteria, businesses should have been in operation for a minimum of six months, make a minimum of 100k and must have liability insurance, and if you believe you are at the right stage to broadcast your ad on national TV (ie, could your business thrive and function with a potential influx of sales/awareness).
How much time should we anticipate dedicating to the initiative if selected?
The time commitment required will be dependent on the individual needs of each business and the schedule of the initiative. More details will be provided to the selected businesses.
Are there any costs involved for participating businesses?
There are no costs for participating businesses. All expenses related to the initiative will be covered by Channel 4, Lloyds Bank, DOES and Jamii.
Is the initiative open to businesses based anywhere in the UK?
The initiative is open to businesses based anywhere in the UK.
Can businesses apply if they have participated in similar initiatives before?
Businesses that have previously participated in similar initiatives can apply, however, those who have previously had TV advertisements cannot apply for this initiative.
What are the criteria you will be using to select the successful applicants?
The selection criteria is displayed on our Apply Now page.
What happens if I am shortlisted but cannot commit to the rest of the schedule/timings?
Please thoroughly read through our key timings and dates before applying, unfortunately we cannot take your application through any further if you cannot commit to the dates outlined.
How will the mentorship be structured? Can we choose our mentors?
The structure of the mentorship program will be shared with the selected businesses. While mentors are carefully matched to suit each business’s needs, participants do not directly choose their mentors.
What we do offer is an opportunity to decide if you would like to pursue a mentoring relationship after a ‘chemistry session’, where mentors and businesses meet for the first time and decide if they’d like to work together.
What kind of support can we expect from Channel 4 and Lloyds Bank during the initiative?
Channel 4, Lloyds Bank and DOES will provide extensive support, from financial expertise to advertising know-how. Each business will benefit from tailored guidance to help them grow and scale.
This includes:
- Background reading
- Mentorship
- Business Coaching
- Access to events
- Support with ad creative
- Access to business resources
- Relationship manager from Lloyds Banking Group [Optional]
How much creative input will we have in the creation of the TV advertisement?
Whilst a standard creative format will be used across all ads, business owners will have some creative freedom within that structure. Channel 4 will work collaboratively with the business owners on the script, filming and tone ensuring they are happy with the production. Please note, ultimately final creative control sits with Channel 4.
Where will the TV Ad be filmed?
The bulk of the TVCs will be filmed at a London studio. However other London-based locations might be introduced to add variety to the spots.
What happens if we are chosen but cannot commit to the filming schedule?
Businesses selected for the initiative should be prepared to commit to the filming schedule. If you have concerns about availability, please contact us.
If we have more questions, whom should we contact?
For additional questions or concerns, please reach out to 4sales@channel4.co.uk
