Think Tanks & Meet-ups
The Think Tanks are invite-only working sessions, bringing together global documentary filmmakers, industry professionals and experts, groups, associations, and festival representatives.
These extended, in-depth conversations tackle topics ranging from strengthening international documentary advocacy and making the industry safer and more equitable, to new initiatives and developments in the fields of impact producing and youth programming, as well as the role of festivals in documentary releases.
Industry Think Tank: Impact producing at the crossroads
Hosted by the Global Impact Producers Alliance (GIPA) and facilitated by Nicole van Schaik, this interactive session invites impact producers to reflect on our collective achievements, assess where we are today, and envision the future of the field. Through practitioner provocations and small-group conversations, we’ll identify the resources and infrastructure needed to ensure that documentaries continue to drive tangible social change.
Friday November 13, 10:00 - Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam: Studio 1
Industry Think Tank: Festival admissions
Festivals are typically where documentaries are first revealed to the public, serving as a launchpad, but sometimes also as the only opportunity for theatrical exhibition. How does their role translate into the number of admissions and gross box office of a film? Festivals sell tickets, but they also give them away to sponsors, festival guests, and professionals. They also organize free screenings and often make films available online during the festival. Based on the research developed by Marek Hovorka of Ji.hlava and the Doc Alliance, this think tank gathers festival representatives, distributors, sales agents, and funds to discuss if and how calculating festival admissions and revenue can be standardized.
Friday November 13, 15:00 - Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam: Studio 1
Industry Meet-up: Documentary associations
More information coming soon
Saturday November 14, 10:00 - Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam: Studio 1
Industry Think Tank: #DocSafe
Building on the work of the Doc Together and #DocSafe initiatives and organized in collaboration with the IDFA Bertha Fund, this closed session brings together representatives from festivals, markets, training initiatives, and advocacy organisations to discuss how we can join forces to support filmmakers facing challenging circumstances once labs, festivals, or markets are over. Exploring frameworks for short-term relocation and hosting, legal and psychological support, and access to knowledge and resources, the session aims to lay the groundwork for a collective structure towards lasting solutions.
Saturday November 14, 13:00 - Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam: Studio 1
Industry Meet-up: Youth Documentary Pitching Session
An informal and supportive session for documentary filmmakers developing projects for a young audience at an early stage. Moderated by Ido Abram, the session begins with an introduction to the art of pitching, exploring how to communicate a film idea clearly, identify its core elements and engage potential partners. Through practical examples and shared insights, participants will gain tools to strengthen their pitches and develop their projects. The session will then move into individual conversations with the filmmakers, offering space for tailored feedback, questions and exchange with Ido. Designed as a constructive and non-competitive environment, it encourages experimentation, reflection and new connections within the international documentary community.
Tuesday November 17, 10:00 - Stadsschouwburg Amsterdam: Studio 1