MUMBAI: BBC Worldwide officially launched BBC Worldwide Labs with a kick off session for 140 members of the digital community at Google’s East London campus.

The initiative is aimed at supporting the creative and digital industries in the UK by offering them insight and expertise into the industry. They will also get the opportunity to forge new partnerships with companies that can help them get a step closer to launching their products or services.

Participants who attended the sold out event heard from BBC Worldwide executive VP, MD of digital Dan Heaf who shared his insights on the current state of digital media innovation.

BBC Worldwide Labs head Jenny Fielding, who unveiled the full details of the scheme, said: “I’m delighted that today marks the start of BBC Worldwide Labs initiative. Our aim is to shine a light on and support the most innovative up and coming digital companies in the UK who are helping to define the ever expanding digital landscape."

BBC Worldwide is not seeking to inject money into the companies but hopes to partner with them at the point of commercialisation.

Early-stage digital companies will have until 15 July to submit their proposals for the first wave of the scheme. Following this, an advisory panel will whittle the submissions down to 18 hopefuls who will be asked to present to the panel and five finalists will be chosen.

The successful candidates will be technology oriented and focused on web and software development with international appeal such as web applications, gaming, virtual worlds mobile, connective TV and CRM.

Each of the chosen start-ups will have the opportunity to work with experts from across BBC Worldwide including technology, content, marketing, sales, advertising and legal. They will also be offered workspace within BBC Worldwide west London offices, monthly mentoring sessions and networking events – all comprising the rich BBC Worldwide ecosystem over a six month period.