Veronica Fury of Wild Fury attended The World Congress of Scientific and Factual Producers 2011, in Paris 27 November - 3 December 2011 

WCSFP is still one of the most important international markets we attend. It is the key interface between factual producers and the market place. It is where key projects are pitched and discussed. It was a sell out with over 600 attendees. There is plenty of opportunity to meet broadcasters and potential co-production partners. I take it very seriously indeed.  Wild Fury seemed to have a strong presence at the market which was good.

As a moderator for some of the “Meet and Greet” sessions with broadcasters I get meet a broader range of broadcasters to follow up with at a later date. 

Market Trends

Funding is tight everywhere. The international market seemed to be trending towards international co-productions to make the dollar stretch. However this clashes with Australian market trends to have presenters on broad which prevents Australian content travelling.  The trick seems to be to explore versioning that works for both markets 

Benefits

There are a lot of benefits to attending WCSFP:

• Direct interface with the key decision makers of all the major factual broadcasters. 
• Opportunity to socialise with the broadcasters at the evening social events and lunches.
• Good relationships are formed that can be followed up with later.
• The broadcasters see you as a major player if you go to WCSFP.
• All the major Australian producers attend.
• Good international co-production opportunities explored.