Two of the biggest platforms in anime streaming, Crunchyroll and HIDIVE, have officially joined a newly formed coalition called Beyond Mainstream: A Global Streaming Alliance, uniting with 13 other international specialty streaming services. The initiative was created to protect niche media platforms amid rapidly changing global streaming policies and regulatory pressure affecting the entertainment industry.
Rather than a merger or business consolidation, Beyond Mainstream functions as a collective advocacy group, giving independent and genre-focused streamers a stronger voice in policy and licensing discussions typically dominated by large global platforms. The coalition includes services across film, global television, regional content, LGBTQ+ media, South Asian cinema, and anime, all sectors often sidelined in mainstream streaming prioritization.
The streaming environment is shifting quickly. As new government regulations emerge around distribution, content rights, and audience data management, smaller services face a threat of being pushed out by larger platforms and stricter licensing frameworks. By forming an alliance, these companies intend to secure space for alternative voices, cultural content, and niche communities.
The coalition states that its purpose is to ensure fair and proportionate regulations, protecting platforms that serve diverse audiences rather than mass-market entertainment. It also seeks to prevent niche content from being overshadowed as mainstream services become increasingly homogenized.
NDM+ President and CEO Nijel de Mesa emphasized the urgency behind the formation:
“This coalition is especially timely as new systems for digital democracy and global governance are on the horizon. Beyond Mainstream will foster mutual cooperation so members can act together to secure a vibrant and sustainable future for streaming in the global entertainment landscape.”
Industry analyst Dan Rayburn added that Beyond Mainstream does not have a central controlling authority, meaning it is not owned by any one platform, and decisions will be made equally among members.
15 members have joined the initiative:
Acorn TV, ALLBLK, HIDIVE, Shudder, Sundance Now, Crunchyroll, NDM+, OUTtv, Pure Flix, Rakuten Viki, The Roku Channel, SonyLiv, Sony One, Tubi, and Zee5.
For anime fans, the presence of Crunchyroll and HIDIVE is especially significant. Both platforms serve audiences dependent on niche licensing, simultaneous worldwide releases, subtitling upgrades, and production pipeline support. A strong unified voice could reduce blackout regions, licensing delays, and restricted access to titles outside Japan.
Source: Beyond Mainstream
