Vimeo signs 7 distribution partners, including Drafthouse Films, to on demand platform

Vimeo is bulking up its content library with an eye to original, independently-produced video, and has signed distribution partnerships with seven media and entertainment companies that will see their content featured on the Vimeo On Demand platform.

Its new partners include BFS Entertainment & Multimedia Ltd., Drafthouse Films (the indie film distribution arm of the Alamo Drafthouse & Cinema), lifestyle-focused producer Gaiam, Gravitas Ventures, Inception Media Group, MarVista Digital Entertainment and X-Treme Video.

Each will contribute a number of initial catalog titles and will add new releases throughout each year of the partnership.

Signing Drafthouse Films is a significant win. In late June, the indie film distributor announced a deal with Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) that made Prime Instant Video the exclusive streaming home for several movies like Cheap Thrills and The Visitor. At least one title, Cheap Thrills, will also be available on Vimeo's platform.

While Vimeo has long offered users the capability to upload their videos, similar to YouTube's model, it has concentrated its efforts for the past few years on becoming a go-to site for independent filmmakers. Vimeo allows premium members to upload HD-quality videos and also enables creators to sell their videos through its On Demand platform.

In March, Vimeo made a deeper investment in indie filmmakers, establishing a $10 million fund for filmmakers who, if selected, must make their films exclusively available on Vimeo for 30 days.

The site has also attracted high-profile filmmakers testing the online video waters. Joss Whedon simultaneously premiered his independent film, In Your Eyes, on Vimeo and at the Tribeca Film Festival in April.

For more:
- see the press release

Related articles:
Vimeo pledges $10M to indie filmmakers in move to round up exclusive content
Whedon premieres film on Vimeo and at Tribeca simultaneously
YouTube might play matchmaker to Hollywood, online video talent