Quebecor Media Group has become the latest Canadian media company to enter the exploding multi-channel network (MCN) space with the launch of Goji, which one senior executive says opens the door to a “new era” in entertainment for young adults.
The Quebec-based company bills the new service as a “talent collective” serving online video content creators.
According to Quebecor, Goji will enable YouTube creators to use the company’s reach to maximize their impact, presence and visibility among their target audience of 15 to 30-year-olds.
“When it comes to the means of production, the availability of experts, new opportunities to collaborate and access to our print and electronic platforms, Goji opens the door to a whole new era in entertainment for young adults,” said Caroline Roy, vice-president of Quebecor Digital, in a release.
The past 18 months have seen a spate of activity in the Canadian MCN space as traditional media companies like Quebecor look to grab a piece of the fast-growing online video market.
Toronto’s Blue Ant Media acquired a minority stake in the music-focused MCN Omnia Media in April 2014, while in September 2014, Corus led a $12 million Series C funding round for the female lifestyle based Kin Community.
Bell Media launched its MCN Much Digital Studios in April, and announced its first wave of brand partnerships – including Puma, Bell and Virgin Mobile Canada – in August.
Earlier this month, CBC announced a multi-year partnership with California based Fullscreen, which boasts more than 70,000 creators and 600 million subscribers worldwide.
