Facebook Launches New Program to Fund Original Facebook Watch Shows

As it seeks to generate more interest in its dedicated video platform, Facebook is launching a new program which will fund a range of original Facebook Watch shows, focused more specifically on entertainment, as opposed to news and current affairs.As reported by Digiday, the program - referred to as 'Facebook Match' - will see Facebook spend up to $200,000 per show, partnering with brands like BuzzFeed, Condé Nast and Complex Networks, to produce original Facebook Watch programming featuring celebrities and other influencers."Facebook describes this program as a video incubator to fund collaborations between publishers and video creators. At the beginning, the program features 12 publishers, including smaller publishers such as Attn, Shots Studios and The Players’ Tribune, as well as digital networks such as All Def Digital, Studio71 and Whistle Sports. Viacom, through its Viacom Digital Studios unit, is also involved in the program. Initial pairings between publishers and video stars include BuzzFeed and YouTuber Hannah Hart, Condé Nast and singer Keke Palmer and Tastemade and actress Angela Kinsley.