• by Richard Whitman , Columnist, June 13, 2022

Publicis Media’s APX Content Ventures today awarded a portion of its $25 million Inclusion Investment Fund to 10 diverse-owned, operated and/or targeted companies, including Alpha Precision Media, AspireTV, Canela Media, Complex Networks, DAX & Breakbeat Media, Fuse Media, Hip Rock Star Media and more. 

This fund which was announced in July 2021 and is part of Publicis Media’s program to improve industry diversity under its Once & For All Coalition. Funds are being used to help this initial group of partners develop over 20 programs spotlighting diverse voices and storylines. 

In the first round of funding, 50 producers and suppliers were invited to submit content ideas. Nearly l70 ideas were submitted for consideration, and proposals were evaluated based on content ideas, how the applicants think about diversity in front of and behind the camera, what unique roles brands can play within and alongside the content and other criteria. 

The Once & For All Coalition’s 30-plus advertiser members (who are Publicis Groupe clients) receive an exclusive first look at the content being developed with the opportunity to explore branded/sponsored agreements and other partnerships. 

APX Content Ventures is a global PM unit dedicated to finding and funding projects that amplify diverse voices, empower women and build community, connection and trust. In addition to the Inclusion Investment Fund, APX Content Ventures has generated hundreds of hours of programming worldwide across genres, including Inside the Black Box in partnership with Crackle Plus and Big Boys Don’t Cry in partnership with Sky TV and Royal London. 

Funding for additional partners and projects will be awarded in the coming months.