Highlights of the 2013 Conference

Following four days of lively and informative sessions, invaluable networking opportunities and unforgettable social events, the 2013 World Congress of Science and Factual Producers came to a close with over 600 members having congregated at Le Westin, Montreal for the sold out industry conference that brought together science and specialist factual producers and broadcasters from around the world.

• Host Broadcaster Discovery Canada and EPI welcomed 674 members from 26 countries to Montreal, Canada, for the 21st annual WCSFP from December 3 to 6, 2013;

• Leading Canadian broadcasters participated in the Congress, including Discovery Canada, CBC/Radio-Canada, Shaw Media and Blue Ant Media;

• 87.7 per cent of members surveyed reported they were able to advance projects in development by attending Congress;

• 86.5 per cent of members surveyed reported they were able to find new production partners by attending the Congress;

• A total of 22 international companies sponsored the Congress;

• The traditional Congress opening session, What’s the Buzz?, was delivered to an at capacity room of members, and was hosted by Richard Bradley (Managing Director, Lion Television; UK) and Beth Hoppe (Chief Programming Executive and General Manager, General Audience Programming, PBS; USA), sponsored by Discovery Canada and EPI, and produced in collaboration with Darlow Smithson Productions;

• 167 projects from a total of 89 difference producers applied for Speed Dating;

• 22 intimate Close Encounters sessions were scheduled over three days;

• The new Emerging Producers Bursary Program provided a range of financial support for accreditation, travel and accommodation to 10 emerging producers working in science, history and factual media;

• Four emerging science communicators from the UK were provided mentoring and professional development opportunities through the Wellcome Trust Mentoring Program for Emerging Talent.