Frequently Asked Questions

1. General Information 

2. Registration

3. Programs & Sessions

4. Prizes & Bursaries 

5. Project Funding Opportunities

6. Sponsorship & Partnership

7. Press & Media Inquiries

8. Travel & Accommodation

9. WCSFP Community

1. General Information 

  • What is WCSFP?

WCSFP is a not-for-profit company with a Board of Directors who work with an Editorial Advisory Committee, the Conference Director and Documentary Campus.

WCSFP’s annual conference (Congress) is the pre-eminent international event where the factual media community gathers to share, explore and reveal how science, history and other content-rich subjects are communicated to a mass audience. Held in a different city and country every year, it provides insight into global market and editorial trends, and showcases excellence in the creation of ‘smart content’.

  • Who attends Congress?

WCSFP brings together a diverse community of professionals from the science and factual media industry, including:

  • Producers & Filmmakers – Independent creators and production companies specializing in factual storytelling.
  • Broadcasters & Commissioners – Representatives from leading networks.
  • Scientists & Experts – Researchers and specialists contributing to science-driven content.
  • Distributors & Funders – Companies and organizations supporting content financing and distribution.
  • Digital Media Professionals – Innovators in digital networks.
  • Industry Executives & Decision-Makers – Key figures shaping the future of factual content.
  • Emerging Talent – Up-and-coming filmmakers and digital producers with bright ideas.

     
  • When and where is the next Congress taking place?

Dates and location for Congress ‘25 are to be announced soon. Stay tuned and sign in for our newsletter to get the latest updates.

  • What’s the Code of Conduct?

WCSFP is committed to fostering a professional, inclusive, and respectful environment for all attendees, speakers, sponsors, and staff. Our Code of Conduct outlines expected behavior to ensure a welcoming and harassment-free experience for everyone. By entering our events, you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct.

 

2. Registration

  • How do I register for WCSFP?

When registrations open, you can register for WCSFP online through our official Registration page. Payment can be made securely through our accepted payment methods.

  • What are the registration fees?

Registration fees vary based on the type of pass and the registration period. We offer different pricing tiers, including early bird rates.  A full breakdown of fees can be found on the Registration page of our website.

  • Are there discounts for early bird registration?

Yes! We encourage attendees to take advantage of our early bird rates, which offer discounted pricing for those who register before a specified deadline. Be sure to check our website for the latest early bird registration dates and rates.

  • Are there any discounts for students or digital and independent producers?

Yes, we offer special discounted rates for students, digital content creators, and independent producers. Eligibility criteria and required documentation for these discounts are outlined on our Registration page. If you qualify, be sure to provide the necessary proof when registering.

  • Will I receive a confirmation after registering?

Yes. Once your registration and payment are successfully processed, you will receive a confirmation email with your registration details and a receipt. If you do not receive a confirmation within a few hours, please check your spam folder or contact our registration team for assistance.

  • What is the refund policy if I can no longer attend?

WCSFP has a no-refund policy for registrations. However, if you are unable to attend, you can transfer your registration to another attendee by notifying the WCSFP team before the event. In cases of proven illness or exceptional circumstances, you may request to have your registration deferred to the following year. For more details on how to transfer your registration, please refer to our Refund & Cancellation Policy or contact our registration team.

  • What is included in the registration?

Your WCSFP registration includes:

  • Access to all sessions and networking events (please note that some formats require advanced sign-ups)
  • Access to WCSFP community via our digital event plattform
  • Access to the member lounge and coffee breaks 
  • Access to social events, lunches and coffee breaks
  • Opportunities to participate in Speed Dating (advanced sign-ups required)
  • Exclusive networking opportunities with industry professionals

3. Programs & Sessions

  • What types of sessions can I expect at WCSFP?

WCSFP offers a diverse range of sessions designed to inform, inspire, and connect science and factual content producers worldwide. These include:

  • What’s the Buzz – A showcase of the most exciting and anticipated up and coming science and factual projects
  • Keynote Talks & Sessions – Insights from industry leaders, scientists and factual & digital professionals
  • Ideas Salon - Round table discussions with scientists on the biggest breakthroughs in science.
  • Speed Dating – Pre-arranged meetings for producers to present their projects to Decision Makers.
  • Close Encounters of the Funding Kind  – Small group meetings for delegates to meet with broadcasters and commissioning editors. 
  • Meet with - Informal presentations and networking opportunities with channels

 

  • When and where will the full schedule be announced?

The full schedule is announced closer to the event and details can be found here.

  • Are sessions recorded and available on-demand?

Congress is an onsite, in-person event designed to foster strong industry relationships. While most sessions will be live and interactive, some individual sessions may be recorded and made available on-demand for the community, depending on session type and speaker permissions. Details on which sessions can be accessed post-event would be shared with registered attendees.

  • Do any sessions require advanced sign-ups?

Yes, certain sessions may require advanced sign-ups due to limited capacity or exclusive participation criteria. These typically include: Speed Dating, Ideas Salon and Meet with. Information on sessions requiring advanced sign-ups will be provided in advance, along with instructions on how to sign up.

  • How can I propose a session or recommend a speaker for WCSFP?

WCSFP is always open to suggestions from its community and the broader science and factual media industry. If you'd like to propose a session or recommend a speaker, please send your recommendations directly to our editorial team: the Conference Director, and the Program Manager. The editorial team reviews all submissions and selects those that align with the Congress themes and the interests of our audience.

  • How are programs selected for "What's the Buzz" and other sessions?

What’s the Buzz collects the most cutting-edge productions to be showcased at the start of the Congress, ensuring a broad, international mix of topics and voices. A call for entries will be communicated later in the year. Stay tuned and sign in for our newsletter to get the latest updates. The session producers will then select featured productions that demonstrate unique storytelling or fresh approaches within WCSFP’s focus areas. These productions should resonate with the community and reflect the latest trends in science and factual media. Final selections are made to ensure a dynamic and engaging program that highlights the best of science, history  and factual storytelling. Keep an eye out for the submission call for WTB on our website and in the newsletter. Both the editorial team and the WTB team want to hear from you if you’d like to nominate either one of your own new programs or a new program you’ve seen that you think is Buzz-worthy.  

4. Prizes & Bursaries 

  • How can I submit a project for consideration to the Buzzies Awards?

The submission call for the Buzzies awards is announced mid-year on our website, social media, and via the newsletter. To submit a project for consideration to the Buzzies Awards, visit the Awards Submission page. There, you'll find detailed instructions on how to submit your project, including the required forms, entry materials, and submission guidelines. Be sure to check the eligibility criteria to  ensure your project meets the required standards before submitting.

  • What are the eligibility criteria for submissions?

Eligibility for the Buzzies Awards varies by category. Please check the Awards Submission page for specific criteria and category details.

  • When are the submission deadlines?

Please check the Buzzies page for specific deadlines. 

  • What’s the Global Career Accelerator?

The Global Career Accelerator is a program for up-and-coming factual filmmakers, digital producers, or anyone ready to take their career to the next level and bring their science, history, or natural history work to audiences around the world. This program is open to all fields of expertise including factual, digital, social media, gaming, and multimedia. Find out more here. 

  • How can I apply for the Global Career Accelerator?

Submission information, eligibility criteria and deadlines can be found on the Global Career Accelerator page. 

  • When is the application deadline?

The submission call for the Global Career Accelerator Program and the deadlines are announced mid-year on our website and via the newsletter.

5. Project Funding Opportunities

  • What funding opportunities are available at WCSFP?

Speed Dating is a format for independent producers to connect one-on-one with Decision Makers. With this program we give delegates with projects the chance to actively find commissioning editors, acquisition executives, distributors, and funders across the globe.

  • How do I apply for Speed Dating?

The submission call for Speed Dating opens closer to the event on our website, social media and via the newsletter. To submit your projects for Speed Dating please visit the Speed Dating page.

  • When is the application deadline for Speed Dating?

The application deadline for Speed Dating will be posted on the Speed Dating page.

  • Who are the key industry representatives taking meetings at the Speed Dating sessions?

Commissioning editors, acquisition executives, distributors, and funders participate in Speed Dating each year. Confirmed Decision Makers in 2024 were from ABC, ARTE G.E.I.E., Autentic GmbH, bilibili, BossaNova Media, CICC, CLPB Rights, Deutsche Welle, Espresso Media International, Filmoption International Inc, Gedeon Media Group, ITV Studios, Love Nature, Marmalade Sky TV, Media Pros Africa, National Geographic, NOVA/GBH, PBS Distribution, PBS Nature, RTL Television / NTV Germany, Svergies Television/ Swedish Television, The WNET Group, TVF International, ZDF, ZED, 3boxmedia International Sales.

  • What other networking opportunities are available at WCSFP?

Congress offers a myriad of networking opportunities to connect with industry professionals and peers. Through the event platform, attendees can request individual one-on-one meetings and utilize the member lounges to meet. During the Meet with sessions, attendees can meet and  network with broadcaster representatives, while the Close Encounters sessions offer a chance to explore funding opportunities with participating broadcasters and commissioning editors. Additionally, WCSFP has a tradition of hosting social events, providing a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for community members to connect outside of the business setting. These social events are a fantastic opportunity to build relationships in a more informal environment.

7. Sponsorship & Partnership

  • What sponsorship opportunities are available at WCSFP?

WCSFP offers a range of sponsorship opportunities designed to maximize exposure and engagement with the science and factual media industry. All sponsorship packages are anchored with a home base on the Congress digital platform, core recognition across multiple touch-points and include in-person event registration.For a full list of available sponsorships, download our Sponsorship Menue here our contact our Director of Partnerships. 

  • What are the benefits of sponsoring WCSFP?

Sponsoring WCSFP provides significant exposure to a global audience of industry professionals, thought leaders, and Decision Makers. Beyond the benefits associated with your sponsored property, overall support is recognized through the Congress website and onsite signage. 

  • How can my company become a sponsor or partner?

To become a sponsor or partner at WCSFP, reach out to our Director of Partnerships. We’ll guide you through the process, help identify the best opportunities for your company, and provide a detailed sponsorship package.

 

7. Press & Media Inquiries

  • How can I obtain press accreditation?

WCSFP is a conference for it's community first and foremost and grants a limited number of press and media accreditations to selected international business media outlets. Accreditation is subject to review and approval. Please note that access to sessions depends on formats and speaker permissions. To foster open, industry-focused discussions, some sessions may be designated as press-free and will not be accessible to media representatives.

  • Who should I contact for media inquiries?

For media accreditation requests, please contact our Communications Manager.

  • Are press releases or media kits available?

Closer to the event, WCSFP provides press releases, social media kits, and other promotional materials to partners and accredited media representatives.

  • Can I interview speakers or organizers?

Interviews with speakers, organizers, and special guests may be arranged upon request. Availability depends on the speaker’s schedule and approval. 

 

8. Travel & Accommodation

  • Are there recommended hotels for attendees?

As WCSFP is a rotating event, each host location comes with new hotel recommendations.  We suggest staying at the conference hotel or nearby accommodations for convenience. Recommended hotels will be listed on our website once the location is announced.

  • Is there a special hotel discount for WCSFP attendees?

Yes, WCSFP secures a limited number of blocked rooms at select hotels, often at a special rate for Congress attendees. These rooms can be booked using a promo code, which will be shared on our website and in attendee communications. Early booking is encouraged, as availability is limited.

  • What are the visa requirements for international attendees?

Visa requirements depend on the host country and city. Please ensure you visit your government's website to check for visa and travel requirements to the WCSFP location. Attendees are advised to check early and apply in advance to avoid any delays.

  • Are there health and safety tips for my stay?

Health and safety guidelines vary by location. WCSFP will share some relevant health and safety information. Please ensure you visit your government's website to check for travel advisories. 

9. WCSFP Community

  • How do I join the WCSFP community?

Through registration to Congress you become part of the WCSFP community and can engage with fellow industry professionals through our sessions, networking events, and online platforms. Stay connected year-round by subscribing to our newsletter, joining our social media channels, and participating in community-driven initiatives.

  • How can I join the Editorial Advisory Committee?

The Editorial Advisory Committee is made up of industry professionals who help shape the WCSFP program. Committee members are typically chosen based on their experience and contributions to the factual and science media industry. If you're interested in contributing please contact the Conference Director, Paul Lewis at plewis@wcsfp.com.

  • How can I set up meetings with other community members at WCSFP?

Attendees can arrange one-on-one meetings through the event platform, which allows participants to request and schedule meetings with fellow attendees. Additionally, the member lounges provide a great space for informal discussions and networking throughout the event. For pre-arranged short meetings in the Speed Dating format, connecting independent producers with Decision Makers please check here.

  • Can I have a meeting with someone who is not registered at WCSFP?

All of the Congress venues, including the social events, are for registered attendees only. Staff will request to see your badge upon entrance.

11. Technical Support & Accessibility

  • Where can I view sessions and participants?

Registered attendees can view the full schedule of sessions and the list of participants through the event platform. Details on how to access the platform will be shared after completing registration. 

  • Is there an app?

WCSFP may offer a dedicated event app to enhance the attendee experience, providing easy access to the schedule, participants and networking tools. Once the app is available, details on downloading and using it will be provided on our website.

  • Who do I contact for technical issues with the app or website?

For any technical issues related to the event platform and app please contact the technical support team within the platform. For general assistance please contact information@wcsfp.com

12. Contact Us

  • How can I get in touch with the WCSFP team?

For registration inquiries, contact registration@wcsfp.com

For sponsorship and promotional partnership opportunities, contact our Director of Partnerships, Adam Kirkham, at akirkham@wcsfp.com 

For inquiries about the Buzzies awards, please contact awards@wcsfp.com

For media inquiries please contact our Communications Manager, River Ferris at rferris@wcsfp.com

For any other questions, please contact information@wcsfp.com

 

  • Where can I find updates and stay informed about WCSFP?

Stay up to date with WCSFP through multiple channels: Subscribe to our Newsletter to receive the latest announcements, deadlines and exclusive insights. Visit our website for official updates, program details, and important event information. Follow WCSFP on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook for real-time news and community engagement. Registered attendees can access the latest event schedule, speaker updates, and networking opportunities through the official event platform.