Every industry has majors and independents. The same is true in the entertainment industry. An independent film or TV program is financed primarily from sources outside the six major U.S. studios. An independent product is made at every budget range and is seen side-by-side with major studio releases. Often, independent films are viewed in independent film houses while major studio releases go to the major theater chains. Independent films are also targeted for and picked up by niche markets such as schools, libraries, universities, etc.
– Wikipedia