BANFF and Paramount+ in Canada announce 25 women-owned production companies taking part in the 2025 BANFF Spark: Producers Edition program

Toronto, September 9, 2024 - The Banff World Media Festival with partner Paramount+ in Canada is pleased to announce the 25 participants of the 2025 BANFF Spark Accelerator for Women in the Business of Media: Producers Edition, who will be attending the 46th edition of the Festival on June 8-11, 2025.

BANFF Spark, a first-of-its-kind program, and originally launched in 2019, has already generated positive career growth for more than 200 women participants by helping them form strategic partnerships, hone their business skills, and grow their foothold in the global entertainment industry.

This edition of the program will provide participants with business guidance and a gateway to the Canadian and global film and television industry through comprehensive virtual workshops, curated meetings as well as travel funding and attendance at the renowned Banff World Media Festival's conference and marketplace.

This year's cohort comprises established producers who have been working in the industry in many cases for decades. Their goal is to scale up, attract partnerships and investment, grow their production slates and chart the path for their company's future success and sustainability. Through the program they will receive international recognition and high-level industry access to help them achieve their mandates.

Programmed through an intersectional lens, BANFF Spark aims to empower all women including women of color, Indigenous women, women with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ women, and non-binary individuals to advance both domestically, and across the global media industry.

"We are thrilled to work with these incredibly talented women. This cohort includes an impressive roster of multiple Canadian and international award-winning producers, and entrepreneurs with high-level production experience. We thank our program partner Paramount+ in Canada for sharing our commitment to strengthen equity in our industry and continuing to support women-owned businesses to scale up and make an even greater impact on the global stage," said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director of the Banff World Media Festival.

"Paramount+ in Canada is proud to support and invest in the BANFF Spark Program, Producers Edition to continue its legacy of supporting diversity within the production community", said Vanessa Case, Vice President Content, Paramount+, Canada. "Evolution is crucial to our industry. It's not only necessary, but it's in our industry's best interest to find new female voices and provide tangible opportunities and learnings they can use for years to come and pass on to the next generation."

Learn more about the 2025 participants here.

In Conversation With Sean Cohan, Bell Media

Join us for an engaging interview with Sean Cohan, President of Bell Media, one of North America's premier media companies. In this exclusive session, Cohan will outline the company's vision and touch on key topics including Bell Media's continued evolution from legacy broadcaster to digital media and content leader; Bell's commitment to the development of great, global content; strategic partnerships and broad digital & global content distribution; and rebrand of Canadian original content from "required" to "uber-relevant" and "growth driver."

Orphan Black: Echoes - Screening and Master Class

From Boat Rocker and AMC, Orphan Black: Echoes, takes a deep dive into the exploration of the scientific manipulation of human existence. Set in the near future, it follows a group of women as they weave their way into each other's lives and embark on a thrilling journey, unravelling the mystery of their identity and uncovering a wrenching story of love and betrayal. Join us for the Canadian premiere screening of episode 101 and a dynamic panel featuring creator/showrunner/executive producer Anna Fishko, series star Amanda Fix, Orphan Black co-creator and Orphan Black: Echoes director/executive producer John Fawcett, executive producer and Boat Rocker EVP Nick Nantell, and AMC Networks EVP of Streaming Courtney Thomasma.

Hear from the creative minds behind some of the latest & greatest shows

Formats, IP, renewals, AI and strikes: join this powerhouse panel of creators - each boasting decades of writing on and helming some of the biggest shows - as they discuss the craft and business of making hit series in 2024.

Meet the 2024 Rockies Gala host

The Festival's flagship honours will be hosted by Emmy Award winning Executive Producer, Correspondent, Director and Writer Allana Harkin. All BANFF delegates are welcome.

2024 Rockies Gala honourees announced

Meet the distinguished 2024 Rockies Gala recipients. BANFF's Rockies Gala recognizes some of the entertainment industry's most influential business figures and most talented creatives. The awards will be bestowed at the Festival on June 10th.

In Conversation With the A+E Inclusion Award Winner, Robin Roberts

Presented by A+E Media Group, the Inclusion Award recognizes an individual whose efforts and vision in media champion and reflect the diversity of the world in which we live.

In Conversation With Amy Reisenbach, CBS Entertainment

Join CBS Entertainment's President, Amy Reisenbach at a special In Conversation With session, as she speaks about the network's 2024/25 programming strategy, the art of building procedural franchises and CBS' important role in the evolving TV ecosystem.

SOUNDTRACK: a new 'Music On Screen' stream with the most sought-after Music Supervisors

A hit song or perfectly chosen piece of music can make all the difference in your next project. That's why this year we're launching SOUNDTRACK, a new programming stream focused on maximizing the power of music in film and TV productions, and featuring some of Hollywood's most influential Music Supervisors.

Dive in with one of Hollywood's most sought-after music supervisors, the multi-nominated Grammy and Emmy award-winning Nora Felder, known for her work on Stranger Things, Yellowjackets, Ray Donovan, Californication, Better Things, to name a few.

In this exclusive intimate and interactive session, Nora will share her creative approach from ideation to execution, offering insights into how she helps select the ideal musical accompaniment for her projects. Through case studies, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role music plays in enhancing narrative depth and emotional resonance within television.

Join these top-tier Music Supervisors who have shaped the sonic landscape of your favourite films and shows. They'll discuss the dynamic collaboration between music supervisors, producers, directors and showrunners, the fine art of soundtrack selection, licensing hurdles, keeping budgets and timelines in check and the influence of emerging technologies – all the while working to enhance the storytelling and captivate audiences.

+ We're presenting the first ever Rockie Award for 'Best Use of Music in a Series'

On the evening of Tuesday, June 11th, during the 45th Rockie Awards International Program Competition, we'll be awarding a brand new accolade recognizing the impact that music has in screened entertainment.

Nominees include:

Faraway Downs, 20th Television, USA/AUSTRALIA
Fellow Travelers, Fremantle, Showtime, USA
Ride, Blink49 Studios, Seven24 Films, Hallmark Channel, Bell Media, Fifth Season, CANADA/USA/UK
The Sea Beyond S3, RAI Radiotelevisione Italiana, Picomedia, ITALY
Yellowjackets, eOne/Showtime, CANADA

BANFF and DGC announce the recipient of the 2024 Jean-Marc Vallée bursary

Toronto, May 8, 2024 - The Banff World Media Festival (BANFF) with the Directors Guild of Canada (DGC) announced today that Amelia Moses (Havoc Films) is the recipient of the 2024 Jean-Marc Vallée bursary. Sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery Access Canada, the bursary offers a Québec-based director an opportunity to attend the Festival to showcase their work, and gain industry profile.

Announced during BANFF's 2022 Rockies Gala, the annual bursary honors the legacy of Québec filmmaker, Jean-Marc Vallée, (Big Little Lies, Dallas Buyers Club). In addition to providing recipients with a pass to BANFF and $5000, the bursary also supports travel funding, and a curated suite of professional development opportunities provided by BANFF, the DGC, and Warner Bros. Discovery Canada.

"Jean-Marc Vallée had a truly authentic voice in our industry. He was committed to supporting his beloved film community in Montréal, by generously giving of his time and financial assistance to emerging talent. We are so pleased to be able to support his efforts and the next generation of Québec filmmakers with our partners the DGC and Warner Bros. Discovery Access Canada," says BANFF Executive Director, Jenn Kuzmyk.

"Jean-Marc matched his dedication to film and to the film community with a gracious and unwavering commitment to supporting and mentoring emerging filmmakers," says Warren P. Sonoda, President of the Directors Guild of Canada. "We could not ask for a more fitting tribute to his memory than backing talented artists like Amelia."

Moses' first feature film, Bleed With Me, that she wrote, directed and produced highlights her female-driven stories of the macabre, and the uncanny. The film premiered at the Fantasia International Film Festival and was distributed as a 'Shudder Original' (AMC Networks) in 2021. Bloodthirsty that she directed was the closing night film at Austin's Fantastic Festival, and was nominated for two 2021 Canadian Screen Awards. She recently directed the thriller, Guess Who for Tubi, and is currently finishing up a new short film called, Her Body.

"Attending the Banff Media Festival was an experience I will never forget. Not only is the setting absolutely stunning, but the festival is a who's who of the globe's most influential television players. Banff Media Festival broadened my understanding of the TV world, while at the same time expanding my network. It was invaluable!" Elza Kephart, inaugural 2023 Jean-Marc Vallée bursary recipient (director of Graveyard Alive: A Zombie Nurse in Love, and Slaxx).

Charting the Course Forward

Join our esteemed international media leaders as they delve into the currents reshaping the media landscape. From technological convergence to the imperative of diversity and inclusion, they'll navigate the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving industry, sharing innovative strategies driving success in the face of disruption.

Pitch Doctors experts announced

Join the pre-Festival virtual sessions designed to help you pitch at BANFF.

1:1 Pitch Doctor Meetings (virtual)
Thursday, April 25, 1pm - 2:30pm ET
Advance sign-up: April 10-18 (virtual; first come, first served)

In these 13-minute virtual consultations, some of the industry's most talented pitch experts will take a look at your materials and give you advice on how to deliver them with maximum impact.

Pitch Doctors Virtual Panel: Perfecting your presentation
Friday, April 26, 1pm - 1:45pm ET
Advance sign-up is not required. Festival Pass holders can join this virtual session live; a recording will also be available for all registered delegates on BANFF's online event platform following the session.

Get insight from industry executives who have heard countless pitches. Our experts will answer your questions and share how best to prepare for your in-person pitch meetings at BANFF.

Industry leader Channing Dungey returns to BANFF as a Summit Series speaker

Warner Bros. Television Group Chairman and CEO Channing Dungey is confirmed to join the Festival's premium Summit Series keynote lineup this June.

"We're delighted to welcome back Channing Dungey as a keynote speaker," said Jenn Kuzmyk, BANFF Executive Director. "Channing's unparalleled expertise and insights are a key driver in shaping the future of the entertainment industry. She is a visionary whose impact transcends screens."

Channing Dungey is the first Black executive and first woman to lead Warner Bros. Television Group. In this role, she has creative responsibility for all of the Studio's unrivaled television production activities, including nearly 90 scripted, unscripted, and animated series for streaming platforms, cable, and the broadcast networks. Prior to joining the company, she was Vice President of Original Series at Netflix. Before that, she made history as the first Black executive to run a major television network when she was tapped to serve as president of ABC Entertainment.

About BANFF Summit Series

The BANFF Summit Series is a curated, future-focused lineup of keynote sessions that was launched in 2019 in honour of the festival's four-decade legacy. Past Summit Series speakers include Jeffrey Katzenberg, Paula Kerger, Pearlena Igbokwe, Bela Bajaria, Ted Sarandos, and Maverick Carter to name a few.

Universal Studio Group presidents to outline their vision at BANFF

Hear directly from the presidents of Universal Television, Universal International Studios & UCP and Universal Television Alternative Studio, as they outline their vision for 2024 and beyond, and share intel on how best to do business with them.

Universal Studio Group is the umbrella brand that houses NBCUniversal's four powerhouse television studios. Collectively, the four premium studio brands produce over 100 projects across 27 platforms, including Law & Order, Hacks, Girls5eva, Chucky, Dr. Death, That's My Jam, Hollywood Game Night, Everyone Else Burns and We Are Lady Parts.

About BANFF Spotlights

BANFF Spotlights are high-profile sessions featuring the mandates and strategies of top executives from leading global entertainment companies and organizations.

First Summit Series keynote announced

Rob Wade, CEO of FOX Entertainment, is confirmed to join the Festival's Summit Series, a premium keynote speaker lineup featuring the boldest voices and the world's most influential media leaders. This keynote will feature FOX Entertainment's global growth story and the strategies that are driving their content business.

"Being part of BANFF's 45th milestone year is quite an honor," said Wade. "This annual must-attend festival is like no other, uniting our industry in celebration of creativity and forward-thinking innovation."

"Rob is a seasoned producer, savvy creative executive, and now CEO of FOX Entertainment, with exactly the kind of forward thinking and focus on creative and business excellence that defines BANFF." said Kevin Beggs, Chair of the Board of Directors, BANFF and Chairman & Chief Creative Officer, Lionsgate Television Group.

Rob Wade is responsible for FOX Entertainment's growing portfolio of businesses, including FOX Network; in-house unscripted studio FOX Alternative Entertainment (FAE); scripted content creator FOX Entertainment Studios (FES); Studio Ramsay Global in partnership with Gordon Ramsay; Emmy Award winning animation house Bento Box Entertainment; entertainment platform TMZ; independent production studio MarVista Entertainment; and worldwide content sales and distribution unit FOX Entertainment Global (FEG).

Under Wade's leadership, FOX continues to deliver strong results, ranking as the #1 network in key demos for the 2022-23 full broadcast season and delivering strong programming for the current 2023-24 season.

About BANFF Summit Series

The BANFF Summit Series is a curated, future-focused lineup of keynote sessions that was launched in 2019 in honour of the festival's four-decade legacy. Past Summit Series speakers include Jeffrey Katzenberg, Paula Kerger, Pearlena Igbokwe, Bela Bajaria, Ted Sarandos, and Maverick Carter to name a few.

BANFF announces the 3rd edition of the Indigenous Screen Summit Pitch Forum

Rogers joins as Presenting Partner with Founding Partners Indigenous Screen Office and Canada Media Fund

Applications open today: iss.banffmediafestival.com

TORONTO (Tkaronto), February 26, 2024 - The Banff World Media Festival (BANFF) announces the return of the Indigenous Screen Summit Pitch Forum (ISS), and welcomes Rogers Communications as a new multi-year presenting partner. The company joins founding partners, the Indigenous Screen Office (ISO) and the Canada Media Fund (CMF). Applications open today for the third edition of the ISS Pitch Forum, which will take place on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta, kicking off the 45th edition of the Banff World Media Festival.

"ISO is pleased to announce our continued support of the ISS Pitch Forum. We are committed to empowering Indigenous storytellers to present their stories at this important global market and to develop meaningful connections within the industry. We are so happy to welcome Rogers Communications to the circle as a presenting partner of the ISS Pitch Forum." Kerry Swanson, CEO of ISO.

"The ISS Pitch Forum is an essential platform for showcasing Indigenous storytellers, ensuring they get the recognition that is long overdue and that their stories stand out within the broader Canadian media landscape. The Pitch Forum has flourished over the last two years thanks to our partnership with the ISO, and we are pleased to welcome Rogers as a presenting partner this year. Their involvement highlights the necessary and growing support for Indigenous projects at home and globally," said Valerie Creighton, President & CEO of the Canada Media Fund.

"We are really excited to expand our partnership with the Banff World Media Festival by supporting the Indigenous Screen Summit Pitch Forum," said Robin Mirsky, Director, Rogers Group of Funds. "We are committed to providing opportunities for Indigenous creators to bring their ideas to the national stage by supporting the ISS in their mission to increase access to the industry and remove barriers to funding."

"We are delighted to welcome Rogers as a new partner alongside our founding partners, the ISO and the CMF in providing a platform to support Indigenous storytellers. The ISS has already contributed to the development and distribution of Indigenous projects presented during the Pitch Forum. We are delighted that with the help of our partners, we can continue to grow the ISS to offer Indigenous creators access to top industry professionals, the ability to forge industry partnerships, and to develop and garner strategic partnerships to further their projects. We also welcome back our ISS Advisory Board and ISS Producer Rachel CrowSpreadingWings to our event production team," said Jenn Kuzmyk, Executive Director of the Banff World Media Festival.

About the ISS Pitch Forum

Fifteen (15), Indigenous producers/creators present their projects in a series of mainstage pitch sessions, to a panel of leading industry buyers, and to an audience of industry delegates. Running adjunct to the renowned Banff World Media Festival (BANFF), one of the world's most important gatherings of entertainment industry executives, the ISS seeks to amplify the work of Indigenous creators and producers and their film/TV/web series projects across the Canadian global marketplace.

The half-day event includes pitches in the genres of Documentary/Unscripted, Scripted Drama, and Scripted Comedy. Pitch applicants are adjudicated by an expert jury and drawn from the 'Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Initiative' (a program that brings up to 100 racialized producers to the festival each year), and the 'CBC-APTN Early Stage Scripted Development Program for Indigenous Creators in association with the ISO', as well as an open call for applications.

Interested candidates are invited to apply by March 7, 2024 at 3 PM ET. Please visit the ISS website for eligibility and submission guidelines.

The ISS Pitch Forum participants will receive a full pass to the Banff World Media Festival, a travel stipend, industry mentorships, and customized networking opportunities with top industry professionals. ISS participants will have access to the full complement of structured and unstructured networking, receptions, and curated sessions at the festival. All delegates of BANFF 2024 will have access to the Indigenous Screen Summit and Pitch Forum. There will be no additional cost to attend.

The Banff World Media Festival welcomes three top executives to its Board of Directors

Long-standing member Sandra Dewey stepping down

The Banff World Media Festival (BANFF) is proud to announce the addition of three media leaders to its Foundation's Board of Directors including Lisa Kramer, President, International TV Licensing, Paramount Global Content Distribution; Bing Chen, Executive Chairman, Founder AU Holdings, CEO & Co-Founder, Gold House and General Partner, Co-Founder Aum Group; and Patrick Vien, Group Managing Director, International, A+E Networks; while long-standing member and former WarnerMedia's President of Business Operations and Productions for HBO Max, TNT, TBS and truTV, Sandra Dewey is retiring from her position on the board.

"We are excited to welcome such a distinguished group of new board members as Banff continues to build on its reputation as the preeminent creative television festival in North America," said Kevin Beggs, Chair of the Board of Directors, BANFF and Chairman & Chief Creative Officer, Lionsgate Television Group. "We also wish to thank the amazing Sandra Dewey for many years of dedicated service to the festival."

See all members of the Banff Television Festival Foundation's Board of Directors here.