Highlights of the 2012 Conference

Following four days of lively and informative sessions, invaluable networking opportunities and unforgettable social events, the 2012 World Congress of Science and Factual Producers came to a close with over 600 members having congregated at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for the sold out industry conference that brought together science and specialist factual producers and broadcasters from France and around the world.

• Host Broadcaster Discovery Channel & Science Channel welcomed 605 members from 26 countries to Washington, D.C., for the 20th annual WCSFP, from November 27 to November 30, 2012.

• Leading American broadcasters participated in the Congress, including Discovery Channel & Science Channel, PBS International/PBS/NOVA, National Geographic, and Smithsonian Channel.

• 85% of members surveyed report they were able to advance projects in development by attending the Congress.

• 86% of members surveyed reported they were able to find new production partners by attending the Congress.

• A total of 19 international companies sponsored the Congress including one Host Broadcaster, one Presenting Platinum Partner, one Contributing Partner, three Platinum Partners, four Gold Sponsors, three Silver Sponsors, four Bronze Sponsors, and three Industry Partners.

• The traditional Congress opening session, Welcome and What’s the Buzz?, was delivered to an at capacity room of members and was hosted by Phil Fairclough, EVP Development & Marketing USA, Executive Producer, NHNZ (USA). This year’s signature WCSFP session was sponsored by host broadcaster, Discovery Channel and Science Channel and produced by Story House, the producers of the WCSFP Dresden Welcome and What’s the Buzz? session.

• The number of Speed Dating projects submitted was 157 projects, from a total of 77 different producers.

• Seventeen intimate Close Encounters sessions were scheduled over three days, providing key industry knowledge during closed-door meetings for 18 to 25 members at a time.

• The Emerging Markets Program provided no-cost accreditation, travel and accommodation to four established producers from under represented territories.

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

• The Congress introduced the first WCSFP Mobile App to provide members with on-the-go access to important Congress information.