Registration (Curio Foyer 10:00AM - 8:00PM)
10:00 AM-10:30 AM

New To The Festival Tour
CASCADE BALLROOM
1:00 PM-2:00 PM

Informal guided tours designed to help you make the most of BANFF. Our team members will be on-hand to guide you through the event features that'll help you meet your business goals. Drop in only. No sign-up required.

BANFF 101: Turn A Blind Date Pitch Meeting Into A Hot Love Story
CASCADE BALLROOM
2:00 PM-3:00 PM

Should you bring a box of chocolates to woo a buyer? No... but you should know the flow; what moves to make and when to make them. Pitch experts, Mark and Jeanne Simon, co-founders of SellYourTvConceptNow.com, will reveal how to flirt... tease... and make bold advances to spark a True Romance deal in a pitch meeting.

• How to start the pitch of your dreams
• Pitch Do's and Titanic failures
• The ONE question you must pop
• When you need to shut the %$#@ up!

 

This is an interactive session! A few brave volunteers will get the chance to pitch their shows on stage to the Simons who will critique the pitches with tough but Big Love…and pitch it back to them.

Speaking

Media Leaders Series: Canadian Media Leaders
CASCADE BALLROOM
4:00 PM-5:00 PM

This year, our annual Canadian Media Leaders panel will feature a discussion on the future of production, development, and broadcast of screen-based content in Canada. With the onslaught of streaming opportunities commanding the attention of viewers’ eyeballs, broadcasters must explore all possible revenue streams to ensure they maintain viewership and financial success. What strategies will the employ and how can producers hope to succeed as models continually shift? This high-level conversation is your best opportunity to hear directly from the leaders of Canada’s content industry as they share their visions for the future.

Speaking

Media Leaders Series: Studio Competition In The Peak TV Era
CASCADE BALLROOM
5:00 PM-6:00 PM

In the age of Peak TV, viewers have never had more choice when it comes to what content they are going to watch next, but what does that mean for the studios that are creating it? To stay competitive in this market, studios need to embrace their creativity in their production and financial strategies. Budgets are booming, traditional programming methods are evolving, and new players in original content like Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu are able to attract both creators and consumers in ways that linear broadcasters couldn’t have imagined a decade ago. These studio heads will opine on what they are doing to ensure their brand stays strong and how they are finding the best homes for their productions.

Speaking

CBC Radio - Canada Opening Reception (Please Join us in the Riverview Lounge 6:00PM - 8:00PM)
6:00 PM-8:00 PM

CBC Radio Canada welcomes you to their opening reception! Meet new business partners and reunite with old friends and contacts from around the world over hors d'oeuvres. Enjoy hand-selected wines and locally-brewed beers at the annual Festival kick-off.

Netflix Late Night Party With Musical Talent Provided by Festival Music House and Radio Starmaker Fund (OFFSITE - Please Join us at Wild Bills 10:00PM - 1:00AM)
10:00 PM-11:59 PM

Registration (Curio Foyer 7:00AM - 6:00PM)
7:00 AM-7:30 AM

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
8:00 AM-9:00 AM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Company Of Distinction Keynote: Channing Dungey, President, ABC Entertainment
CASCADE BALLROOM
9:00 AM-10:00 AM

President of ABC Entertainment Channing Dungey will deliver the annual Company of Distinction keynote, on behalf of this year’s recipient Disney|ABC.

Speaking

Keynote: The Honourable Mélanie Joly
CASCADE BALLROOM
10:00 AM-11:00 AM

The Banff World Media Festival is proud to announce that The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, will join BANFF with a special keynote presentation. Following up on her popular keynote last year, Minister Joly will discuss how digital technology is transforming our world, and explore the role of government in supporting innovation and creativity to create new opportunities to bring the best of Canada to the world.

Speaking

Digital Innovators In The Content Industry
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
10:00 AM-11:00 AM

The latest developments in new technologies are unlocking brilliant new levels to storytelling and re-shaping the way that content gets made. Our panelists will chat about how technology goes hand in hand with art and how these innovative technological creations are trailblazing creative projects from the ground up. New technological advances inspire creative people to reach further creating immersive stories. From the latest tech inventions to specific data analysis, our panelists will speak to how to inspire audiences, and how to keep them. Find out the challenges and successes that come with leading content creators into the future.

Speaking

Networking Break
11:00 AM-11:30 AM

Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

Toast to China Reception and Signing Ceremony
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
11:00 AM-11:30 AM

Join us as AMPIA and China’s Guangdong Delegation sign their MOU and celebrate with a Toast to China.

Roundtable: The Next Generation of Content Distribution
IVOR PETRAK ROOM
11:00 AM-12:00 PM

Canadians have a long-standing love affair with all things mobile. As Canada boasts some of the fastest and most reliable networks in the world, consumers have gotten used to enjoying content on all their screens.

The telecommunications sector is preparing to implement 5G, the next generation of wireless networks, which among many other technology enhancements will allow consumers to download high definition feature films in a few seconds.

This roundtable will discuss the public policy measures best suited to support 5G infrastructure and nurture the growth of 5G technology’s adoption.

Speaking

International Scripted Buyers
CASCADE BALLROOM
11:30 AM-12:30 PM

BANFF's Buyers Series is an in-depth examination of what major international content buyers are looking for to fill their programming blocks in the coming year. Our scripted deep-dive will feature leading comedy and drama commissioners from broadcast networks, cable channels, and digital platforms will share the different strategies they utilize when taking pitches for new programming. You'll find out exactly what types of shows buyers are seeking out, what trends have been overdone, and how to find the right home for your content.

Speaking

From A Best-Seller To A SVOD Success Ready To Conquer The World
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
11:30 AM-12:30 PM

A special conversation about the partnership and ingredients behind the success story of the drama series Victor. Based on the best-selling book franchise Victor Lessard, the psycho-thriller released on Club illico in March garnered more than 1 million viewings in 2 weeks and earned unanimous critical acclaim. The partners will tell you the secrets behind this innovative creative process, and their approach to bring this series to the international audiences.

Speaking

Creative Unscripted: The Golden Era Of Prestige Factual Content
ALBERTA ROOM
11:30 AM-12:30 PM

Between Making a Murderer, The Jinx, and Planet Earth our industry is seeing a boom in beautifully produced, long-form, engaging storytelling in the factual realm. Due to increased budgets, advances in technology, and growing audience curiosity, unscripted content is gaining traction on the critical and mass appeal of traditional drama and comedy programming. Learn from producers and broadcasters of leading non-fiction content as they discuss the current appetite for prestige factual programming, where this genre is going in the coming year, and how you could find great success with your productions.

Speaking

Networking Break
12:30 PM-1:30 PM

Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

*The Rundle Lounge food menu will be available in the Bell Lounge throughout the Festival*

Roundtable: Monetizing Content In The Digital Economy
IVOR PETRAK ROOM
12:30 PM-1:30 PM

Content is King…if it can be monetized. New technological developments and delivery platforms have disrupted the traditional value chain for content creation which has now challenged creators’ ability to protect and monetize program rights both territorially and globally. Leaky geo-gates and the increased presence of pirated content sites that have driven consumers’ appetite for “free” content have made it increasingly difficult for the creative sector to recoup their content investments and build the strong well capitalized businesses that are needed to compete on a global scale. This panel will take stock of the latest trends in online piracy and distribution and discuss the implications for the both the Canadian and global media sector of having to compete with “free.”

• What is driving consumers to pirated sites? Lack of access or the price point?
• Are the current legislative tools available in Canada sufficient for stemming piracy? (e.g. notice and notice; the right of civil action) Would enhanced tools lead to better outcomes in going after online pirates? (e.g. site blocking; impugning unlawful streaming; or expanding criminal prohibitions)
• What have other jurisdictions done by way of legislation on piracy that Canada can consider?
• What are the long-term implications for the Canadian content sector of failing to address piracy and illegal access to content? Will less content get made or just less quality content?
• What are distributors doing to compete with pirate sites?

Speaking

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
12:30 PM-1:30 PM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Rockie Awards Program Competition Ceremony
VAN HORNE BALLROOM
12:30 PM-2:00 PM

In the first of two Rockie Awards shows, the winners of the celebrated Rockie Awards Program Competition are announced. The Rockie Awards is  BANFF’s flagship program celebrating excellence in television and digital content from around the world. Hundreds of television and digital programs compete for a coveted Rockie Award, presented at this ceremony each year at BANFF. With participation from more than 40 countries annually, including an industry jury of more than 130 professionals working in entertainment and media around the world, the Rockie Awards is one of the world’s largest program competitions of its kind.

Please note the venue change - The Rockie Awards shows - both Gala and Program Competition, will be taking place in the Van Horne ballroom this year. It is located on the conference side of the hotel.

Speaking

Partner Presentation: YouTube
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
1:30 PM-2:30 PM

People around the world are now watching a billion hours of YouTube content every single day. How can content creators engage with this growing global audience? Join as we chat with companies that have been successful on traditional platforms and now are extending their reach and growing their businesses on YouTube. We'll discuss why and how they got started on YouTube, what's working, and what they've learned along the way.

Speaking

International Unscripted Buyers
ALBERTA ROOM
1:30 PM-2:30 PM

BANFF's Buyers Series is an in-depth examination of what major international content buyers are looking for to fill their programming blocks in the coming year. Leading factual commissioners from broadcast networks, cable channels, and digital platforms will share the different strategies they utilize when taking pitches for new programming. You'll find out exactly what types of shows buyers are seeking out, what trends have been overdone, and how to find the right home for your content.

Speaking

No Laughing Matter: The Current State Of Comedy & Satire
CASCADE BALLROOM
2:00 PM-3:00 PM

From the beginning of the 2016 U.S. presidential race to the day-to-day actions of the current administration, we’ve been living in a time of great uncertainty. However, the one thing that we could be consistently sure of has been the outstanding efforts of comedy’s most talented creators. Whether it be through satirical news coverage, late night talk shows, or hilarious viral videos, the comedy industry has stepped up to create some of its best work when viewers need it the most. But beyond pure entertainment, what is their responsibility -- if any -- to the general public to do more than generate laughter? The Onion’s CEO, Mike McAvoy, will share his thoughts on the role comedy plays in the national discourse and how he sees that role evolving moving forward.

Speaking

The Shifting State Of Kids TV
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
2:30 PM-3:30 PM

The fact that the appetite for entertaining content appears to be bottomless may be the only consistent factor driving the children’s TV industry right now. Everything else, from distribution outlets to merchandising opportunities, is sitting on shifting sands. This panel of seasoned industry execs will look specifically at the changing nature of kids media consumption habits, broadcast/distribution paths, co-production models and auxiliary commercialization to present a clear picture of the biz and where it’s headed.

Speaking

Carving Out Your Place: How To Succeed Amongst The OTT Giants
ALBERTA ROOM
2:30 PM-3:30 PM

In a world full of OTT juggernauts, how do OTTs outside of Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video successfully cut through and stand their ground? In the thick of the digital revolution, all OTT platforms face the risk of consumer choice oversaturation amongst other issues. Hear our panelists speak to what keeps them not only surviving but inspiring. Find out how they curate their premier libraries, what catches their eye content-wise, and how they continue to profit through their unequivocally independent business trajectories.

Speaking

Roundtable: Making A Place For Canada In The Global Media Market: International Comparisons
IVOR PETRAK ROOM
3:00 PM-4:00 PM

Canadian content has flourished over the last 30 years thanks in large part to the Government’s cultural policy objectives that were achieved through a labyrinth of regulations and quotas. Technology has quickly made this successful model obsolete leaving many Canadian creators and cultural entrepreneurs wondering how they will be able to find an audience in an increasingly crowded content market dominated by US-based multi-national conglomerates. Europe is facing similar challenges in that traditional players have long been the sole source of support for domestic content yet more and more audiences are migrating to large digital players like Netflix and YouTube. Data from Europe suggests that Netflix now accounts for nearly half of subscription video on demand services.  In response to this trend, the EU is moving vigorously to support domestic content markets and to require OTT services to meet domestic policy objectives. Join international delegates and experts to discuss whether similar policy tools make sense for Canada and will help promote Canadian cultural product worldwide.

• Identify and assess the effectiveness of policy measures designed to protect domestic cultural services and products from Europe.
• Is there a “right balance” of national and "foreign" imported cultural products available for domestic consumption in a given country? If so, what does that look like?
• Are there elements of the EU approach that may make sense for Canada?

Speaking

Networking Break
3:30 PM-4:00 PM

 Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
3:30 PM-4:30 PM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Company Of Distinction Keynote: Gary Marsh, President and Chief Creative Officer, Disney Channels Worldwide
CASCADE BALLROOM
4:00 PM-5:00 PM

Don’t miss this exclusive keynote presentation by Disney Channels Worldwide President and Chief Creative Officer, Gary Marsh.

Speaking

Partner Presentation: CMF Key Trends Report Presentation
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
4:00 PM-4:30 PM

The major technological innovations and new digital strategies that have marked the last few years have led to significant. Changes in the audiovisual industry around the world. In fact, they have redefined infrastructures, uses, relationships with the audience, business models, and the competitive environment. While most of the big names in the industry have adapted to the new digital ecology, some fundamental questions remain. How has the new audiovisual value chain been reconfigured? Which players are best positioned to make the most of it? These questions served as the framework for the 2017 edition of the Trends Report in which the Canada Media Fund examines the value creation opportunities that have emerged from this major industrial reorganization. The digital environment has become a virtual battleground, where competitors battle each other to seize the best opportunities and to position themselves in the evolving value curve.

Speaking

Move Fast And Break Things With Jonathan Taplin
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
4:30 PM-5:00 PM

Move Fast and Break Things tells the story of how a small group of libertarian entrepreneurs began in the 1990s to hijack the original decentralized vision of the Internet, in the process creating a set of monopoly firms—Facebook, Amazon, and Google—that now determine the future of the music, film, television, publishing and news industries. Jonathan Taplin will speak directly to creators as he outlines the best strategies to navigate the entertainment space and maximize their profitability & ownership.

Speaking

Registration (Curio Foyer 7:00AM - 7:00PM)
7:00 AM-7:30 AM

CMF Breakfast With CRTC Chair JP Blais
ALBERTA ROOM
8:00 AM-9:00 AM

Broadband Internet is transforming our world: It not only empowers citizens and improves their quality of life, broadband also enables the free movement of ideas and content. Yet many policy makers and creators in Canada and abroad are still focused on the traditional divisions between telecommunications and broadcasting. Join Jean-Pierre Blais as he discusses the need to reject the status quo and embrace the Internet’s disruptive nature. Mr. Blais will also share his thoughts on future developments that he foresees because of broadband’s pervasive nature.

Speaking

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
8:00 AM-9:00 AM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Company of Distinction Keynote: Patrick Moran, President, ABC Studios, Featuring John Ridley & Regina King
CASCADE BALLROOM
9:00 AM-10:00 AM

ABC Studios President Patrick Moran is joined by BANFF’s 2017 Showrunner of the Year Oscar-winning writer/director John Ridley and multiple award-winning actress Regina King for a broad ranging discussion on the development process from idea to inception.

Speaking

VR Content - Innovations And Strategies
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
9:00 AM-10:00 AM

Follow the VR industry’s heavy hitters as they discuss how to make sustainable revenue through virtual reality based content creation. Our panelists will discuss the latest developments in VR as well as the viability of this ever-growing technology. On this immersive content panel we will delve into the business of profitability and audience attraction strategies, hearing from both creators AND platforms.

Speaking

Master Class: Canadian Award Of Distinction Recipient Bruce Hills, COO, Just For Laughs
CASCADE BALLROOM
10:00 AM-11:00 AM

This year’s Canadian Award of Distinction recipient is Just For Laughs. Join COO Bruce Hills in a feature conversation as we help them celebrate their 35th anniversary!

Speaking

Kids Buyers Panel - Focus On Preschool
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
10:00 AM-10:30 AM

Get a read on current buying trends for preschool content from some of the biggest names in the business. What are they looking for? What have they seen enough of? What do their wish lists look like? Find out all of this and more at our can’t-miss session for anyone working in the preschool space.

Speaking

Media Leaders Series: Building Partnerships For A Global Audience
ALBERTA ROOM
10:00 AM-11:00 AM

The world is shrinking with each passing day, opening up endless possibilities for content creators looking to bring their programming to new audiences worldwide. The tremendous amount of options viewers have has made them more sophisticated in what they are interested in watching, no longer content to simply watch whatever is put in front of them in traditional programming blocks. They search through the cable channels, networks, streaming services, and new platforms to find the next great show regardless of the language or territory of origin. This can be a challenge for producers, but also a major opportunity to build new partnerships and international co-production & co-financing models to create content that will hit in many different territories. The audience is increasingly global-minded so it is imperative that producers develop the same mindset and work together to transcend borders with worldly projects.

Speaking

Kids Buyers Panel - Focus On 6-11s
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
10:30 AM-11:00 AM

This panel of seasoned acquisitions execs from some of the world’s most active kids platforms will give a lowdown on the current state of content targeting the six to 11 set. You’ll find out what’s resonating and what’s not, and more importantly, what’s next for this all-important demo.

Speaking

Networking Break
11:00 AM-11:30 AM

Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

Master Class: Descendants 2
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
11:30 AM-12:30 PM

The cast, producers, and directors of Descendants 2 will share behind the scenes insight about the upcoming sequel to the original hit and tease our audience with a sneak peek of the new release.

Speaking

Master Class: The Revitalization Canadian Comedy Featuring Workin’ Moms, Letterkenny, And More!
ALBERTA ROOM
11:30 AM-12:30 PM

Canadians are a unique bunch. We’re internationally known as polite, kind, open-minded, and fair. But beyond that, it could be argued that what we are most famous for is our sense of humour. Many of the most successful faces in the world of comedy are Canadian: Jim Carrey, Lorne Michaels, Catherine O’Hara, Mike Myers, Martin Short, Seth Rogen, John Candy, and the list goes on. Canadian broadcasters are dedicating more support than ever before to up-and-coming talent looking to create the next great comedy hit. There are opportunities abound for those looking to break into the Canadian comedy scene and these experts will share their strategies for success and why right now is the best time to be a Canadian comedy creator.

Speaking

Networking Break
12:30 PM-1:30 PM

Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

*The Rundle Lounge food menu will be available in the Bell Lounge throughout the Festival*

Roundtable: Forward From Here: Indigenous Creators, Stories, And Partnerships
IVOR PETRAK ROOM
12:30 PM-1:30 PM

The recent controversy about cultural appropriation is only the latest flashpoint in a long-standing issue.  Can it be used as a catalyst to create constructive change?  Indigenous stories are finding audiences in Canada and around the world.  How can we work together to engage audiences with these stories while also respectfully engaging their source?  Australia’s ‘Pathways and Protocols’ is one model that resulted in Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners creating some of the biggest hits in the history of Australian television.  Can it work here, and what would that look like?

Speaking

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
12:30 PM-1:30 PM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Partner Presentation: Discovering New Voices
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
1:30 PM-2:30 PM

The world has an increasingly insatiable appetite for new content.  If “Content is King”, it’s more important than ever to find and nurture new talent – the new King-makers as it were.   Join Telefilm Canada, the Coup Company and Wattpad for a half-hour conversation about innovative ideas for finding and supporting Canada’s next wave of story-tellers.  

Speaking

Media Leaders Series: Strategies For Success in a Multi-Platform World
ALBERTA ROOM
2:00 PM-3:00 PM

To achieve success in the current landscape, industry players need to navigate the ever-growing maze of networks, services, studios, and OTTs. The buyer/seller ecosystem is no longer as straightforward as it once was: content creators must be increasingly strategic in determining the best outlet for their content and which partners to collaborate with on any given production, while traditional broadcast platforms face increased pressure to find the perfect programming to align with their brand in order to compete with the massive expenditures that SVOD players are dedicating to original content. Meanwhile, traditional broadcasters generate consistent revenue through licensing deals with these SVODs so they must maintain strong relationships. This group of industry leaders will discuss their relationship strategies and give an insider’s look at what it takes to run a global business in such a complicated sector.

Speaking

Keeping Up With Kid Culture: A Disney Research Presentation
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
2:30 PM-3:30 PM

Join Disney Channels Worldwide SVP of Consumer Insights Jane Gould as she unveils new proprietary research on the current state of kid culture for the two to 14 set in the US. In an effort to understand the culture being created by--and having an impact on--today's kids, the findings reveal that a distinctly different generation is emerging. This group is being shaped by shifting family structures, the explosion of creativity and their' drive to be creative, intersectionality in terms of gender ideas and cultivating personal interests, and a craving for new frontiers and a global perspective when it comes to content. And Jane will tell you all about it at this can't-miss session for anyone working in the children's content space.

Speaking

Master Class: Born This Way With Diversity Award Recipient Jonathan Murray
ALBERTA ROOM
3:00 PM-4:00 PM

This year’s A+E Diversity Award recipient, Jonathan Murray, will shed light on the inspiration behind his show Born This Way and how he is using his position to promote diversity within the entertainment industry.

Speaking

Media In The Age Of Trump With ABC News President James Goldston
CASCADE BALLROOM
3:30 PM-5:00 PM

The biggest story of 2017 is the new – and unpredictable – administration.  People are eager to understand what’s happening in the world, and there have never been so many sources for news to engage them. At the same time, fake news is on the rise, leading to profound confusion.  Many people feel ignored or misunderstood by mainstream media organizations. Others dismiss every outlet as a partisan voice. The truth itself has come under siege.

How can modern newsrooms respond in the current climate when the spotlight has never been so intense?

ABC News, known for its distinctive, fair and fearless reporting, boasts some of the best journalists in the business. BANFF is proud to announce a Keynote Address from James Goldston, the President of ABC News, where he will take on these topics and help make sense of a rapidly changing business. This will undoubtedly be one of the most timely and fascinating conversations of the Festival.

Speaking

Networking Break
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
3:30 PM-4:00 PM

Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

Roundtable: In Conversation With Cartoon Network’s Kyle Carrozza
IVOR PETRAK ROOM
3:30 PM-4:30 PM

Meet the mind behind Cartoon Network’s hit comedy Mighty Magiswords, an adventure series that follows Prohyas and Vambre, a sibling team of “warriors for hire” who embark on heroic quests using outrageously funny swords called Magiswords. Building on the original 15-second series that launched on the CN Anything app, Mighty Magiswords is part of a rich connected world of more than 500 pieces of original content. Accompanied by an immersive app Magimobile and the mobile game Surely You Quest, fans can earn Magiswords and grow their collection, further heightening the interactivity of Mighty Magiswords. Carrozza will discuss how he conceived the idea and the development process behind creating a truly multiplatform success that is unlike anything else in the kids marketplace. 

Speaking

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
3:30 PM-4:30 PM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Brands Creating Content
NEW BRUNSWICK ROOM
4:00 PM-5:00 PM

Brands have been adapting to the creative world for some time now, especially with the influential inception of brand studios. Award-winning content has been produced from these internal studios, and brands are playing with many other avenues to create cutting-edge content as well. We will dive into the discussion over the chemistry of brand studios, and all of the successful alternative avenues that brands are taking to create influential, original content. Find out what brands are looking for from producers and how they have managed to create amazing, original, branded-partnership content. Join us as we discuss the science behind brands as creators through the expertise of our panelists.Brands have been adapting to the creative world for some time now, especially with the influential inception of brand studios. Award-winning content has been produced from these internal studios, but why aren’t more brands taking the plunge and following suit? Is there something wrong with brand intervention when it comes to creative content? We will dive into the discussion over the chemistry of brand studios, and all of the successful alternative avenues that brands are taking to create influential original content.  Join us as we discuss the science behind brands as creators through the expertise of our panelists.

Speaking

DHX Kids & Family Cocktail Reception
UPPER RUNDLE
5:00 PM-6:00 PM

The kids & animation market is booming with the advent of new platforms that entertain, educate, and inspire growing minds. This is your opportunity to join industry leaders to celebrate current successes and envision what the future has in store.

Rockie Awards Pre-Gala Reception
VAN HORNE BALLROOM
6:00 PM-7:00 PM

Stop by to share a laugh and have a drink in anticipation of BANFF’s signature gala, the Rockie Awards.

Rockie Awards Gala
VAN HORNE BALLROOM
7:00 PM-8:30 PM

Come celebrate in style at BANFF’s signature Rockie Awards Gala at the luxurious Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. A night not to be missed as this year’s honourees accept their awards.  

Speaking

Registration (Curio Foyer 8:00AM - 2:00PM)
8:00 AM-8:30 AM

Face To Face Meeting Exchange
ALHAMBRA ROOM
8:30 AM-9:30 AM

The renowned one-on-one Face to Face Meeting Exchange provides BANFF delegates with the opportunity to meet prospective partners or peers in the form of some of the world’s leading international development executives, producers, distributors, and agents. Specifically designed to be 10 minute exchanges, the program has enabled thousands of one-on-one meetings and has led to many millions of dollars in transactions. In an ecosystem that thrives on connections, great content, and expertise, connect with people, ideas, and events that are of professional interest and maximize efficiencies!

 

*Advanced sign-up is required. A total of ten (10) Face to Face Meeting Exchange spots can be reserved at sign-up time.

General sign up opened on Monday May 15^th at 12:00pm ET, on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign-up closes on Friday June 9^th at 5:00pm ET.

 

Once onsite: Participants who have successfully secured a Face to Face spot(s) will be required to check in at the session room for processing 15-20 minutes prior to the session’s start time. Showing up late may result in your spot being taken. 

 

For those who did not secure a spot in advance, or would like a chance to secure additional spots, some space may become available onsite due to no-shows. Delegates can arrive at the session room 15-20 minutes before the session’s start time and take advantage of the wait line; the room monitor will process the line on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Speaking

Company Of Distinction Keynote: Tom Ascheim, President, Freeform
CASCADE BALLROOM
9:30 AM-10:30 AM

Freeform’s President, Tom Ascheim, will deliver a keynote presentation as part of the 2017 Company of Distinction program.

Speaking

Master Class: black-ish Featuring Anthony Anderson
CASCADE BALLROOM
10:30 AM-11:30 AM

The Hollywood Reporter is thrilled to present the inaugural THR Impact Rockie Award to black-ish, ABC’s award-winning hit comedy. Star and executive producer Anthony Anderson will take the stage in BANFF to discuss the show’s creation, themes, and cultural relevance

Speaking

Networking Break
11:30 AM-12:00 PM

Take this opportunity to network with your fellow delegates over refreshments and refocus for another great slate of BANFF programming.

Master Class: The Handmaid’s Tale
CASCADE BALLROOM
12:00 PM-1:00 PM

This exclusive discussion between executive producer Warren Littlefield and actress Yvonne Strahovski will detail the production, development, and reception of The Handmaid’s Tale.

Speaking