Top 19 Television Production Investors in the US
Top 19 Television Production Investors in the US
The television production industry in the US thrives on creativity, innovation, and technology. It features a wide range of players, including major studios, independent producers, streaming platforms, and tech companies, all striving to deliver captivating content. From traditional sitcoms and dramas to reality shows and documentaries, the industry aims to engage various audiences. With the rise of online platforms, there's an increasing demand for original programming and diverse content formats. Notably, the production of high-budget series has surged, as competition ramps up between networks and streaming giants, indicating a dynamic future fueled by fresh storytelling and new technologies.
The investors in this list represent various types, including venture capital firms, corporate players, and private equity groups. Most are headquartered in major US cities like New York and San Francisco, with some established as far back as 1887. They vary in size from small teams to thousands of employees, and in 2024, they completed numerous deals, showcasing ongoing interest in media investment. Notable names like Y Combinator and NBCUniversal reflect strong backing in the television production sector, which continues to evolve through strategic funding and innovative projects.
Top 19 Television Production Investors in the US
1. 500 Global
- Website: 500.co
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 98
- LinkedIn: 500-startups
500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator founded in 2010, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Notably, 500 Global has been involved in several transactions relevant to the television production context. For instance, they participated in the Series A and B funding rounds for Viki, an international video site that connects viewers with translated content, highlighting their interest in video distribution platforms. Additionally, they invested in Progressive Generation, a production house that is developing a child-friendly video-on-demand platform, and in Kerning Cultures, a podcast network that plans to expand its content offerings. These transactions illustrate 500 Global's engagement with media and entertainment, making them a noteworthy player in the television production landscape.
2. Y Combinator
- Website: ycombinator.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2005
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 802
- LinkedIn: y-combinator
Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, having successfully launched over 4,000 startups. Among its diverse portfolio, Y Combinator has made notable investments in the entertainment sector, including The Ankler, an entertainment news company that raised $1.5 million to expand its operations, and Durioo+, which raised $2.85 million to create more content and collaborate with animation studios and production houses. These transactions highlight Y Combinator's engagement with companies that contribute to the television production landscape, showcasing its role as an investor in the media industry.
3. Government of Canada
- Website: canada.ca
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1999
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 137
- LinkedIn: government-of-canada
The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing various needs including employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In the context of television production, the Government of Canada has been involved in several significant transactions, providing grants to companies such as Omnifilm Entertainment, Zone3, Imagine Create Media, Eagel Vision, and 10th Ave Productions. These grants, announced on various dates, reflect the government's commitment to supporting the creative industries, particularly in fostering the growth of television production in Canada.
4. Intel Capital
- Website: intelcapital.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Santa Clara, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1991
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 23
- LinkedIn: intelcapital
Intel Capital is a venture capital firm based in Santa Clara, California, founded in 1991. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, with a focus on areas such as AI, cloud computing, and semiconductor technologies. However, Intel Capital has also made significant investments in the media and entertainment sector, which includes notable transactions such as a $12 million investment in Shanghai Media Group in 2008, a $4.25 million investment in Real Image Media Technologies in 2019, and substantial funding rounds for Hungama, totaling $125 million across two rounds in 2015 and 2016. These investments highlight Intel Capital's strategic interest in the media landscape, particularly in companies that contribute to television production and distribution.
5. Disney and ESPN Media Networks
- Website: thewaltdisneycompany.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Burbank, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2004
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 7
- LinkedIn: disney-and-espn-media-networks
Disney and ESPN Media Networks, a division of The Walt Disney Company, is a corporate investor based in Burbank, California. Founded in 2004, the company operates in the entertainment and media sector, providing a diverse range of products and services, including movies, television shows, and consumer products. Disney's acquisition of ABC Entertainment in 1995 marked a significant expansion into television production, allowing the company to produce and distribute a wide array of television content. More recently, the acquisition of Hulu in November 2023 further enhances Disney's position in the streaming and television landscape, enabling access to a vast library of television shows and original content. Disney's involvement in the television production industry is also highlighted by its ownership of various networks and production companies, making it a key player in the sector.
6. SV Angel
- Website: svangel.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 44
- LinkedIn: sv-angel
SV Angel is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth-stage investments, primarily in the technology sector. They provide financial backing, strategic advice, and access to a vast network of industry experts to help startups navigate business challenges. Notably, SV Angel has invested in several companies within the television production context, including Funny Or Die, which raised $15 million in Series B funding, and Brat TV, which received $10 million in Series A funding and $2.5 million in a Seed Round. Additionally, they have invested in OZY Media and Vox Media, both of which are involved in media and content creation, further demonstrating their engagement in the television and media landscape.
7. NBCUniversal
- Website: nbcuniversal.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1912
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 2
- LinkedIn: nbcuniversal-inc-
NBCUniversal Media, LLC is a prominent media and entertainment company based in New York, offering a diverse range of services including television programming, film production, and amusement park experiences. Founded in 1912, NBCUniversal operates through various platforms such as NBC, Universal Pictures, and the streaming service Peacock. The company has made significant investments in the television production sector, including the acquisition of Telemundo Communications, the second-largest Spanish-language broadcaster in the U.S., for approximately $2 billion, highlighting its focus on the Hispanic market. Additionally, NBCUniversal acquired Monkey Kingdom, a UK production company, which allows them to expand their television production capabilities. They also acquired Carnival Films, further solidifying their presence in the television production landscape. Furthermore, NBCUniversal has invested in Crypt TV, a company focused on monster-oriented content, showcasing their interest in innovative television content development. Overall, NBCUniversal's extensive involvement in television production through acquisitions and investments positions them as a key player in the industry.
8. Greycroft
- Website: greycroft.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2006
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 20
- LinkedIn: greycroft-partners
Greycroft is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2006, that specializes in technology investments across various sectors, including software, sustainability, and consumer brands. The firm provides capital and expertise to startups and emerging companies, helping them grow and scale their operations. Notably, Greycroft has invested in several companies within the television production space, such as AwesomenessTV, which raised $3.5 million in a Series A round to expand its marketing team and develop more programming. Additionally, Greycroft was involved in Maker Studios, a significant player in the digital content creation space, participating in multiple funding rounds totaling $37 million. These investments highlight Greycroft's engagement in the media and entertainment industry, particularly in companies that produce and distribute television content.
9. Paramount
- Website: paramount.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1914
- Headcount: 10001+
- LinkedIn: paramountco
Paramount Global is a media and entertainment company based in New York, New York, founded in 1914. It delivers premium content across various platforms worldwide, including film production, television broadcasting, and streaming. Paramount has made significant investments in the television sector, acquiring notable brands such as MTV in 1985 for $667.5 million, BET Networks in 2000 for $2.34 billion, and AwesomenessTV in 2016 for $159 million. Additionally, the acquisition of WhoSay in 2018 further emphasizes its commitment to enhancing its television content and digital presence. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, Paramount serves a broad audience seeking entertainment and information, solidifying its position as a key player in the television production industry.
10. Comcast Ventures
- Website: comcastventures.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1999
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 4
- LinkedIn: comcast-ventures
Comcast Ventures is a venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 1999, that invests in technology startups across various sectors, including Data & AI, Health Tech, and Energy & Sustainability. With a focus on early to growth stage businesses, Comcast Ventures leverages the resources of Comcast NBCUniversal to support the growth of its portfolio companies. Among its notable transactions, Comcast Ventures led a $12 million Series C funding round for WhoSay, a media management platform for celebrities, which highlights their engagement in the media sector. Additionally, they have invested in Vox Media, which has raised significant funding in multiple rounds, indicating their commitment to companies that are influential in the digital media and television production space. Their acquisition involvement with LXTV, a lifestyle network, further emphasizes their interest in expanding media and entertainment offerings.
11. Accel
- Website: accel.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1983
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 101
- LinkedIn: accel-vc
Accel is a venture capital firm founded in 1983, based in Palo Alto, California, specializing in investing in startups and early-stage companies. The firm primarily focuses on the technology sector but has also made notable investments in the entertainment industry. For instance, Accel invested in Legendary Entertainment, which raised $128 million in 2012 and $40 million in 2011, both significant amounts that highlight Accel's commitment to supporting media production. Additionally, Accel has invested in Vox Media, contributing $34 million in a Series E round in 2013, as well as earlier rounds in 2010 and 2009. These transactions underscore Accel's engagement in the television production landscape, making it a relevant player in this space.
12. New Enterprise Associates (NEA)
- Website: nea.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Menlo Park, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1977
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 57
- LinkedIn: new-enterprise-associates
New Enterprise Associates (NEA) is a venture capital firm founded in 1977, based in Menlo Park, California. NEA specializes in investment management and advisory services for startups, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors. The firm partners with entrepreneurs to provide funding and strategic guidance, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. NEA operates through a collaborative approach, emphasizing long-term relationships with founders. Among their notable transactions, NEA invested in Philo, a streaming service that raised $6.3 million in Series A funding in July 2013. This investment highlights NEA's engagement in the television production and distribution space, particularly in technology-driven media solutions. Additionally, NEA has a history of supporting companies like Vuclip, which, while primarily focused on mobile video services, also intersects with the broader media landscape.
13. Warner Bros. Entertainment Group of Companies
- Website: warnerbros.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Burbank, California, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1923
- Headcount: 10001+
- LinkedIn: warner-bros--entertainment-group-of-companies
Warner Bros. Entertainment Group of Companies, founded in 1923 and based in Burbank, California, is a leading entertainment company specializing in film and television production, as well as video game development. The company has a rich history of producing a wide range of movies and TV shows, providing engaging content for audiences worldwide. Notably, Warner Bros. has made significant investments in the television production sector, including the acquisition of Eyeworks, a Dutch factual producer, for approximately $273 million in 2014. This acquisition expanded their television production capabilities and portfolio. Additionally, Warner Bros. has been involved in multiple funding rounds for Machinima, a digital entertainment network, including a $100 million acquisition in 2016 and earlier funding rounds that contributed to Machinima's growth. These transactions underscore Warner Bros.'s active role in the television production industry, making them a relevant investor in this category.
14. Goldman Sachs
- Website: goldmansachs.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1998
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 59
- LinkedIn: goldman-sachs
Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm based in New York, founded in 1998. It provides a comprehensive range of services including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. Notably, Goldman Sachs has made significant investments in the television production industry, including a $175 million investment in MRC in 2013 and a $150 million debt financing for Legendary Entertainment in 2012. These transactions highlight their commitment to supporting companies that are integral to the television and film sectors, showcasing their role as a key player in the media investment landscape.
15. Advancit Capital
- Website: advancitcapital.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Norwood, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 5
- LinkedIn: advancit-capital
Advancit Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in Norwood, Massachusetts. The firm specializes in investing in media, technology, and web3 startups, providing both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. Notable transactions include investments in Brat TV, which raised a total of $12 million across two rounds in 2017, focusing on creating engaging content for a younger demographic. Additionally, Advancit Capital invested in Crypt TV, which raised $3.5 million in a seed round, known for its innovative horror content. These investments highlight Advancit Capital's commitment to supporting companies that are shaping the future of media and television production.
16. Amazon
- Website: amazon.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 37
- LinkedIn: amazon
Amazon.com, Inc. is a multinational technology company based in Seattle, Washington, primarily known for its e-commerce platform. However, it has also made significant strides in the entertainment industry, particularly in television production. Notable transactions include the acquisition of MGM Studios for $8.45 billion in May 2021, which brought a vast library of films and television shows under Amazon's umbrella, enhancing its streaming service, Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, Amazon acquired IMDB in 1998, a platform that provides information about movies and television shows, further solidifying its presence in the entertainment sector. In 2024, Amazon also acquired MX Player, a streaming platform, indicating its ongoing commitment to expanding its digital content offerings. Furthermore, Amazon's participation in the seed funding round for Scriptic, which focuses on content creation, highlights its investment in innovative television production solutions. Overall, Amazon's diverse investments and acquisitions in the entertainment space position it as a key player in television production.
17. Kkr
- Website: kkr.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1976
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 74
- LinkedIn: kkr
KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored investment solutions to institutional and individual clients. Among its notable transactions, KKR led a $400 million strategic investment in Skydance Media in October 2022, valuing the company at over $4 billion. This investment highlights KKR's commitment to the entertainment sector, particularly in television and film production. Additionally, KKR acquired LEONINE in February 2019, further expanding its footprint in the media industry. These transactions reflect KKR's strategy to leverage its expertise and resources to support growth in the television production landscape.
18. The Raine Group
- Website: raine.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 2009
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 8
- LinkedIn: the-raine-group
The Raine Group is an investment bank founded in 2009, based in New York City, specializing in advisory and investment services within the technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sectors. With a focus on mergers and acquisitions advisory, private capital raising, and growth equity investments, The Raine Group has established itself as a key player in the media landscape. Notably, they have made significant investments in the television production industry, including a substantial investment in Imagine Entertainment, which aims to expand its creative footprint and invest in content directly. They also invested in Propagate Content, a studio focused on producing television and digital content, further emphasizing their commitment to the industry. Their involvement with TelevisaUnivision, which raised $1 billion in a Series C funding round, and Candle Media, which focuses on content creation, showcases their strategic investments aimed at enhancing growth in the television sector.
19. Hearst Magazines
- Website: hearst.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
- Founded year: 1887
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 10
- LinkedIn: hearst-magazines
Hearst Magazines, a division of Hearst Corporation, is a corporate investor based in New York, New York, founded in 1887. The company operates across various sectors, including publishing, broadcasting television channels, and providing financial information services. In recent years, Hearst has made strategic investments in the television production industry, including acquiring a 50% stake in NorthSouth Productions, a key player in non-scripted TV programming, in December 2012. This acquisition aimed to enhance Hearst's entertainment division and strengthen its presence in cable network production. In January 2017, Hearst further expanded its television portfolio by acquiring Litton Entertainment, which specializes in producing educational and family-friendly content for television. Additionally, Hearst has invested in iflix, a video-on-demand service, leading a significant funding round to support its growth in the streaming market. These transactions highlight Hearst's active role in the television production landscape, making them a relevant investor in this category.
Television Production Insights: Key Investors in the US
Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
---|---|---|---|---|
500 Global | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 2010 | 98 |
Y Combinator | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2005 | 802 |
Government of Canada | Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1999 | 137 |
Intel Capital | Santa Clara, California, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1991 | 23 |
Disney and ESPN Media Networks | Burbank, California, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 2004 | 7 |
SV Angel | San Francisco, California, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2009 | 44 |
NBCUniversal | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1912 | 2 |
Greycroft | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 2006 | 20 |
Paramount | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1914 | 0 |
Comcast Ventures | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 11-50 | 1999 | 4 |
Accel | Palo Alto, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1983 | 101 |
New Enterprise Associates (NEA) | Menlo Park, California, United States (USA) | 51-200 | 1977 | 57 |
Warner Bros. Entertainment Group of Companies | Burbank, California, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1923 | 0 |
Goldman Sachs | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 1998 | 59 |
Advancit Capital | Norwood, Massachusetts, United States (USA) | 1-10 | 2011 | 5 |
Amazon | Seattle, Washington, United States (USA) | 10001+ | 37 | |
Kkr | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 1001-5000 | 1976 | 74 |
The Raine Group | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 201-500 | 2009 | 8 |
Hearst Magazines | New York, New York, United States (USA) | 1001-5000 | 1887 | 10 |
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