World Congress of Science and Factual Producers (WCSFP) has released an early look at its 2025 program, offering a preview of sessions that capture both the challenges and opportunities facing the global factual industry during a period of rapid transformation. 

Among the first sessions announced are “AI’s Got Talent: Today’s Tools, Tomorrow’s Storytellers,” diving into how artificial intelligence is reshaping production, and “Congress Deep Dive: An Industry in Turmoil—What’s Next?”, which examines how producers are navigating a rapidly changing factual landscape. “Where’s the Controversy? Factual Programming Goes on Trial” challenges the trend of risk-adverse programming while “One Language, Many Stories: Co-Production in Spanish-Speaking Markets” explores how cross-border partnerships are unlocking new funding, audiences, and creative opportunities. Plus, “What’s the Buzz” returns with a showcase of standout new productions for 2025. Confirmed companies taking part include Arrow Media, SVT, Albatross World Sales, Grifa Films, France Télévisions, CBC/Radio-Canada, National Geographic, and BBC Studios Science Unit. The full program will be unveiled in the coming weeks ahead of Congress in Rio this December 8-11.

This year’s Congress will bring together producers, broadcasters, funders, commissioners and innovators from around the world for for in-depth discussions on the forces impacting factual storytelling today – from AI and digital innovation to scientific discovery, historical reinterpretation, fresh approaches to humor and creativity in natural history, and new models of collaboration.

“Amid uncertainty and change, what stands out are the new opportunities emerging for the industry,” said Paul Lewis, Conference Director of WCSFP. “This year’s program embraces the energy and diversity of the global factual community, innovative funding models, creative partnerships, and bold storytelling strategies that are redefining how factual content reaches audiences around the world.”

The preview follows the announcement of three headline speakers leading the 33rd edition. Derek Muller, creator of Veritasium, one of the world’s largest and most influential science YouTube channels, will deliver a keynote on how creators are reshaping factual storytelling and audience engagement. Joining from Los Angeles, Kevin Allocca, Global Director of Culture and Trends at YouTube, will share insights into the forces driving global viewing habits and platform innovation. Rounding out the lineup, Mariana van Zeller, acclaimed journalist and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning National Geographic series Trafficked, will offer a first-hand perspective on the challenges and rewards of immersive investigative reporting.

Bringing together the world’s leading factual producers, creators, and decision makers, Congress ’25 offers a space to connect, collaborate, and create what comes next. Registration for the December 8-11 Congress in Rio is now open. Click here to register.