Get a feel for the layout of our brand-new venue before the Summit officially kicks off so you don’t waste precious time trying to find sessions, events and people throughout the week. This tour departs from the Registration Desk and shows you where everything will take place.

You’ve got the content, you’ve got the clicks—so where’s the money? Converting all of that online attention into actual dollars can be difficult at best, which is why we’re bringing in Rebecca Frankel from Little Dot Studios to break down what monetization models that are working on the world's largest video platform. Little Dot oversees more than 180 YouTube channels on behalf of 45 indie prodcos, and Rebecca takes care of distribution and monetization for the company's kids TV clients. She will also explore the opportunities around creating affiliated niche channels, and how to leverage your audience connections to attract brands and advertising partners.

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees who are keen to pack more professional learning into their Summit week can take part in this session for an additional $250. If you're interested in signing up, contact Maggie Wilkins (mwilkins@brunico.com or 416-408-2300 x539).

Speaking

Rebecca Frankel

Distribution & Partnerships

Little Dot Studios

Arguably the most discerning audience to write for, it’s not impossible to win tweens and teens over. Shows like Bob’s Burgers and Pretty Little Liars have recently done a great job hitting each demo’s sweet spot. So how do you balance unique characters with intriguing narrative threads and story arcs that will keep them entertained? Join a master of the tween/teen writing craft to talk process and genres, and you’ll come away with the tools you need to polish your script ideas.

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees who are keen to pack more professional learning into their Summit week can take part in this session for an additional $250. If you're interested in signing up, contact Maggie Wilkins (mwilkins@brunico.com or 416-408-2300 x539).

Speaking

Tom McGillis

President

Fresh TV Inc

Given that the paths diverge so completely now, the decision to launch a kids IP on TV or on new media first is an important one. So we’re bringing in a brand-building guru to guide you through these choices, outline some related surprises and challenges you should prepare for, and explore how to start constructing a three-year brand plan.

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees who are keen to pack more professional learning into their Summit week can take part in this session for an additional $250. If you're interested in signing up, contact Maggie Wilkins (mwilkins@brunico.com or 416-408-2300 x539).

Speaking

Michael Dee

Director, Coolabi Productions

Coolabi Group

Get a feel for the layout of our brand-new venue before the Summit officially kicks off so you don’t waste precious time trying to find sessions, events and people throughout the week. This tour departs from the Registration Desk and shows you where everything will take place.

You’ve got a seat at the retail table. So what’s your next move? The good news is that retailers are more open to brand and content partnerships than ever before, and their physical and digital reach has never been greater. The challenge is that metrics are murkier, and your old pitch playbook won’t work with the powerful new decision-makers and influencers who will decide your retail destiny. In this Master Class, retail positioning expert Carol Spieckerman will reveal the three principles and five action steps that will drive big-profit, multi-stakeholder retail successes in 2015 and beyond, and she’ll frame everything up with her latest retail insights. Get ready to future-proof your consumer products strategy and win high-volume opportunities!

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees who are keen to pack more professional learning into their Summit week can take part in this session for an additional $250. If you're interested in signing up, contact Maggie Wilkins (mwilkins@brunico.com or 416-408-2300 x539).

Speaking

Carol Spieckerman

President

newmarketbuilders

A top-notch creative team is always at the heart of success in the kids business. So how can a C-class leader reenergize corporate culture and management styles for maximum creativity, while maintaining the company’s mission, vision and values? We’re bringing in an expert consultant to provide clear tactics and strategies on everything from creating the right working environment to cultivate creative talent, to offering the incentives that drive C-class talent retention.

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees who are keen to pack more professional learning into their Summit week can take part in this session for an additional $250. If you're interested in signing up, contact Maggie Wilkins (mwilkins@brunico.com or 416-408-2300 x539).

Speaking

Mercy Salaz

Principal

Strategos

You’ve just had a great idea for a show! (Well, you and your best friend think it’s great!) But how do you know if it will work in the market? And how do you turn your light bulb moment into a global kids brand? These are just some of the Big Questions we’ll be looking at in this lively, hands-on Mentor Class, suitable for creators of all experience levels working on concepts for all age ranges (toddlers to teens). Hosted by Mike the Knight creator Alexander Bar, Put your Best Pitch Forward will offer valuable first-hand insights to help you assess and craft your ideas into effective bibles and one-sheets, navigate the many perils of the pitching process, identify strategies to find the right partners for your project, and secure that ever-elusive greenlight!

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees who are keen to pack more professional learning into their Summit week can take part in this session for an additional $250. If you're interested in signing up, contact Maggie Wilkins (mwilkins@brunico.com or 416-408-2300 x539).

Speaking

Alexander Bar

Founder & Executive Producer

Creative Producer & Author

Get a feel for the layout of our brand-new venue before the Summit officially kicks off so you don’t waste precious time trying to find sessions, events and people throughout the week. This tour departs from the Registration Desk and shows you where everything will take place.

Join some of the industry’s most experienced creators, who will be on hand to work with you on fine-tuning your show concept and pitch materials so you’re ready for market. You can also pop in and ask any questions you may have about developing and pitching kids content.

Speaking

Justine Bannister

Founder & Creative Facilitator

Just B

Michelle Melanson

President & Executive Producer

Radical Sheep Productions

Rita Street

President

Radar Cartoons LLC

Beth Stevenson

President

Brain Power Studio Inc

Natalie Dumoulin

VP of Creative Affairs

9 Story Media Group

Melanie Halsall

Head of Development

Komixx Entertainment

We’ve recruited a handful of leading kids content producers to advise you on your financing game plan and setting up effective co-production partnerships. 

Speaking

Simon Flamank

Advisor

Bob and Co, Ltd

Julie Stall

Partner & Executive Producer

Portfolio Entertainment Inc.

Brenda Wooding

Owner

Kid Glove

Nat Abraham

Partner and President Distribution

Breakthrough Entertainment

Tatiana Kober

President

Bejuba! Entertainment

Tom van Waveren

Executive Producer

Cake Distribution Ltd

Online and mobile video viewing rates continue to skyrocket pretty much everywhere, and YouTube has a rock-solid grip on this audience. Today, YouTube is home to millions of families across the globe who seek out content that entertains, educates and inspires their children. With parent company Google currently revamping several of its products for kids 12 and under, YouTube's Head of Family/EDU Malik Ducard  will talk about new opportunities for producers to engage families like never before. 

Speaking

Malik Ducard

Chief Creative Officer

YouTube

Disney paid in excess of US$500 million earlier this year for Maker Studios, whose Family business unit is one of the largest short-form video platforms in the children’s entertainment industry. Meet Michael Ross, the man in charge of Maker Family, and find out more about the challenges and successes that have shaped his unique perspective and approach to content.

Speaking

Michael Ross

General Manager, Family

Maker Studios

Lana Castleman

Director, Marketing & Communications

Kidscreen

This group of extraordinary leaders come at what they do from left field. Inventive thinkers, natural-born risk-takers―they have pushed the boundaries of their respective industries to achieve success. Their stories will inspire kids biz leaders to step out of their comfort zones and realize it may even be possible to fail safely.

Speaking

Anthony Esparza

Head of Creative Studios

Herschend Family Entertainment

Asi Burak

President

Games for Change

Donna Friedman Meir

CEO & Founder

Lemonade Creative Consulting

Laurie Meadoff

Chief Strategy Officer

The CityKids Foundation

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Laurence Blaevoet

Head of Children's Programs and Channels

Canal + Youth Department

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Barry Koch

SVP/GM, Cartoon Network, Latin America

Cartoon Network

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Paul DeBenedittis

EVP Programming & Content Strategy Acquisitions &Co Productions

Disney ABC Television Group

Eyeballs, eyeballs, eyeballs—attracting a sizable audience is still our ultimate end goal, but how does content develop a following now compared to just five years ago? Who's leading the charge? How have marketing roles changed, and how do things like COPPA regulations come into play with nonlinear series? Our expert panel of producers, broadcast marketers and researchers will discuss what it was like then, and how to get it done now. 

Speaking

Adina Pitt

Independent

Cartoon Network

Scot McFadyen

Executive Producer & Director

Banger Films

Paul DeBenedittis

EVP Programming & Content Strategy Acquisitions &Co Productions

Disney ABC Television Group

Michael Goldsmith

Head of Kids and Family

DHX Media

Jeff Grant

SVP Research

Turner Broadcasting

In each phase of a production, there is always a dedicated producer making sure the train stays on the track. But as the kids entertainment landscape diversifies, the role of a producer is evolving dramatically alongside it. Join our panel of international producers as they compare and contrast past experiences with current experiments, and glean insight into how this all-important position will continue to change as platforms and distribution channels proliferate and shift shape.   

Speaking

Christopher Keenan

Independent Producer

HIT Entertainment

Vince Commisso

President & CEO

9 Story Media Group

Jennifer Dodge

President, Entertainment & Consumer Products

Spin Master

Ken Faier

CEO & El Presidente

DHX Content

Carlos Biern

Content and Distribution Director

BRB Internacional, S.A.

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Migdalis Silva

VP Brand Head Nickelodeon Latin America

Nickelodeon Latin America

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Athena Georgaklis

Executive Producer, Creative & Business Strategy

Corus Entertainment

Carole Bonneau

VP, Content Acquisition & French Language Programming, Télétoon & La Chaîne Disney

Corus Media

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Sebastian Debertin

Head of International Content Acquisitions & Co-Productions

KiKA - Der Kinderkanal of ARD & ZDF

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Lori Burke

Executive Director of Licensing Acquisitions & Media

Penguin Group (US)

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Jeffrey Korchek

VP Licensing Acquisitions & Business Affairs

Mattel, Inc.

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Michael Polis

CEO, Creator, Executive Producer

Atomic Toybox Entertainment

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Julia Posen

EVP and Commercial Director, Group Rights & Development

Walker Books Ltd and Walker Productions

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Bill Graham

President

Jazwares

Christina Miller is now leading the charge at one of the world’s biggest children’s broadcasters, having taken the reins at Turner for Cartoon Network, Adult Swim and Boomerang. Balancing business and creative strategies as she carves a new path for the network is no easy thing, but Miller is definitely up for the challenge. In this one-on-one session, she’ll discuss the experiences that have influenced the way she tackles content management and commercial enterprise, as well as providing a first peek at what's on deck at Cartoon Network, and where she sees the future of kids TV heading.

Speaking

Lana Castleman

Director, Marketing & Communications

Kidscreen

Christina Miller

President

Cartoon Network

Put down that Mojito, and try something stronger—with a twist! This popular creative simulation game is back at Kidscreen Summit, and we hope you’re in the mood to play at the end of the day. Small groups will be challenged to develop an idea and pitch it in just 10 minutes. Some elements are the same for all, and some are unique to each group—the idea is to find out how much a single twist can alter a concept. Come as a team, or meet up with new friends, but get ready to try and hit our creative curveballs out of the park.

Speaking

David Kleeman

SVP, Global Trends

PlayCollective

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Tiphaine de Raguenel

Director of Editorial Strategy

France Télévisions

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Kim Wilson

Director

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Hitoshi Furukawa

Senior Producer Global Content Development Division

NHK

With an increasing emphasis being placed on curriculum in preschool programming, Amazon Studios is blazing a new trail with its pilot program and commissioning strategy. Head of Kids Programming Tara Sorensen, noted curriculum expert Dr. Alice Wilder, and several thought leaders in child development will come together at the Summit to discuss how Amazon Kids is shaping curriculum for early childhood learning and looking at play, art and creativity for the youngest demo.

Speaking

Dale Dougherty

Founder and CEO

Maker Media Inc.

Scot Osterweil

Creative Consultant, The Education Arcade & Research Scientist

MIT Comparative Media Studies

Jarrett J. Krosoczka

Author & Illustrator

Studio JJK

Ellen Galinsky

President and Co-Founder

Families and Work Institute (FWI)

Lana Castleman

Director, Marketing & Communications

Kidscreen

Tara Sorensen

Head of Children's Programming

Amazon Studios

Alice Wilder

Educational Advisor, Amazon Kids

Amazon Studios

To cap off our first day, we're bringing together six media pros who live on the bleeding edge of innovation to talk us through the things they're currently most excited about, and what it all means for our industry in the near future. Each speaker has 20 slides that automatically advance every 16 seconds, guaranteeing that this can't-miss session will be informative, inspiring, and a lot of fun!

Speaking

Alexander Bar

Founder & Executive Producer

Creative Producer & Author

Ryan Lussing

President & Executive Producer

Yellow Bear Studios

Scott Chambers

SVP, North America Media and Licensing

Sesame Workshop

Laura Rodriguez-Costacamps

SciPlay Project Manager & Curriculum Designer

NY Hall of Science

Jesse Cleverly

Creative Director

Wildseed Studios

Nuno Bernardo

Managing Director

beActive Entertainment S.A.

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Jamie Piekarz

Content Producer/Creative Consultant

Corus Kids

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Tiphaine de Raguenel

Director of Editorial Strategy

France Télévisions

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Patricia Hidalgo

Director of Children’s & Education

Turner Broadcasting System EMEA Limited

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Sheila de Courcy

RTE Group Head of Childrens and Controller Rtéjr

Radio Telefis Eireann- RTE Ireland

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Sarah Muller

Senior Head of Commissioning (7+)

CBBC

Mix and mingle poolside with other delegates at the Summit’s biggest social event. This bash caps off the first day and attracts hundreds of kids entertainment execs looking to meet partners, chat about business and soak up the Miami sunset.  

From creativity to coding, technology opens countless doors for children to learn new skills and explore their passions. It levels the playing field for girls to compete in STEM fields, lets kids dive deeper into areas of interest, and gives unparalleled access to those with disabilities. But have you ever tried to have a conversation with a teenager whose head is buried in text messages? Or explain to a toddler that no, they can't have the tablet RIGHT NOW! In this fun, fresh and insightful fireside chat, Randi Zuckerberg, an expert in how consumers—especially parents and children—live and interact with technology, will share her take on family dynamics in the digital age.

Speaking

Kim Wilson

Director

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

Randi Zuckerberg

Creator/Author, Dot

The Jim Henson Company

The benchmarks for successful return on investment in kids entertainment today are exposure in 100+ territories and product on shelf at every retailer from Sydney to Reykjavik. But broadcasters still want shows that relates to the unique experiences of kids in their respective countries. So what are the ingredients required to whip up a series that is both a local hit and a global success? And what is a producer to do with a show that is a huge hit in one country, but has trouble gaining traction elsewhere? 

Speaking

Olivier Dumont

President, Hasbro Entertainment

eOne Family

Sarah Muller

Senior Head of Commissioning (7+)

CBBC

Tom McGillis

President

Fresh TV Inc

Bob Higgins

President

FremantleMedia (New York)

Karen K.Miller

President & CEO

Disney Channels Worldwide

Mass-market retailers are arguably even more powerful than traditional broadcasters when it comes to transforming kids shows into hits. But it's a shifting market right now. How are upstart platforms like Netflix and YouTube channels, and online retailers, affecting an IP owner's ability to get products on shelves and into consumers' hands? Join our expert panel as they cover everything licensors need to know to navigate this less-traveled landscape and flourish.

Speaking

Carol Spieckerman

President

newmarketbuilders

Bill Graham

President

Jazwares

Ron Johnson

EVP, International Consumer Products

Viacom International Media Networks

Rick Glankler

CEO/Co-Founder

FremantleMedia (New York)

Sue Miller

Founding Partner

Mixed Media Group

Renowned research firm Insight Kids will present the results of their groundbreaking and hot-off-the-presses study into the digital lives of kids―what they’re doing as they stream, game, communicate and shop online, and the benefits they get out of each activity. Insight’s analysis will correlate kids’ attitudes and behaviors with cognitive, socio-emotional and physical development milestones, helping attendees understand how to activate kids across multiple dimensions in the exploding digital space. A must-attend!

Speaking

Stacey Matthias

Research and Development

Insight Strategy Group

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Tara Sorensen

Head of Children's Programming

Amazon Studios

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Janine Weigold

Manager, Original Animation, EMEA

RTL Disney Fernsehen GmbH & Co.KG

Frank Dietz

Head of Acquisitions &
Co-Productions

Super RTL

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Adina Pitt

Independent

Cartoon Network

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Daphné de Beauffort

EVP, Animation Acquisitions

TF1 Licences

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Sean Gorman

President

American Greetings Properties

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Andrew Kerr

Co-Founder/Executive Producer

Corus Entertainment

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Rich Maryyanek

Partner and Chief Marketing Officer

Big Tent Entertainment

Spend some quality time getting closer to top-gun consumer products partners who can give you advice and guidance on how to commercialize your kids IP. You’ll have a chance to share a meal in a small group with one of 10 of the industry’s most influential kids merchandise licensees. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Jonathan Mirsky

Director Licensing

Spin Master

Regardless of format, genre and audience even the best concepts fall short without first-rate scripts that bring characters and stories to life. Join some of the industry’s leading development exces and learn how to find, recruit and retain valuable scriptwriters from an international talent pool. 

Speaking

Athena Georgaklis

Executive Producer, Creative & Business Strategy

Corus Entertainment

Christopher Dicker

Creator & Showrunner & Executive Producer

JAM Media

J.J. Johnson

Partner, Executive Producer

Sinking Ship Entertainment Inc

Melanie Halsall

Head of Development

Komixx Entertainment

Fonda Snyder

President

Rainmaker Entertainment

Whether you’ve read one of the dozens of scientific studies on play, or conducted your own personalized "nanny cam" research, we can all agree that play continues to be the primary way kids learn. That’s why it needs to be upheld as an essential ingredient in the content and products that we make for them. In a discussion with experts who create the most playful products, media and experiences for children, we will explore the similarities, differences and opportunities for play across all the platforms that exist in modern family life.

Speaking

Jennie Ito

Global Content Policy Lead, Kids Experiences

The Play Kitchen

Greg Trefry

Partner & Game Designer

Gigantic Mechanic

Gwen Gordon

Chief Mischief Maker

Now Playing Productions

Julia Rousakis

Co-Director & Co-Founder

Architectural Playground Equipment

David Voss

SVP & Executive Producer

Mattel, Inc.

Susanna Pollack

President

NonStop Media

Are gender-neutral products and content becoming more popular as kids increasingly choose what they want to engage with and when? Kids Industries spoke to 2,000 parents and children on both sides of the Atlantic to find out what they really think about the gendering of products and experiences. It turns out that the digital world of apps, websites, social media, games, platforms and hardware is reshaping the discussion. Using primary and secondary sources, Gary Pope will explore the realities and (mis)perceptions of gender signposting in digital experiences designed for children, and then compare it to the gendered framing of content in the physical world of children’s brands and products to assess what it all might mean for the kids biz.

Speaking

Gary Pope

CEO

Kids Industries

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Andrew Beecham

Consultant

Sprout

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Sarah Muller

Senior Head of Commissioning (7+)

CBBC

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Jules Borkent

EVP, Kids & Family

Viacom International Media Networks

Shows with girls in the lead, and often in non-traditional roles, have become increasingly prevalent in kids media over the last few years. So how do production, broadcast and consumer products perspectives shape how a show is created primarily for girls? In this session, our panel of seasoned kids biz pros will explore that critical question and much more. 

Speaking

Joe D'Ambrosia

EVP & General Manager

Disney ABC Television Group

Lisa Henson

CEO

The Jim Henson Company

Jackie Edwards

Head of Fund, YACF (Young Audiences Content Fund)

CBeebies

Jocelyn Hamilton

President,Television

Corus Entertainment

Helen McAleer

IP, Publishing & Production Consultant

Walker Books Ltd and Walker Productions

Put on your kid glasses! The child development experts at Insight Kids will look at the different developmental stages of kids zero to 12 and how the values of their parents’ generation and culture shape their play and connection to stories. They’ll review kids’ timeless needs as well as timely trends. Find out how these priorities impact kids’ entertainment diets and consumption patterns, and how you can best strategize for the future.

Speaking

Stacey Matthias

Research and Development

Insight Strategy Group

Join HIT Entertainment and research outfit Dubit as they present the challenges they faced in reimagining Bob the Builder for modern preschoolers in a changing media landscape. Dubit will unveil research that influenced HIT's plans for Bob V2.0, drawing on quantitative and qualitative data gleaned from interviews of more than 1,800 children in the UK and US. And HITwill offer insights into how this research influenced its relaunch strategy for Bob, and how other children's entertainment makers can do likewise.

Speaking

Peter Robinson

Founder

Dubit

Claudia Scott-Hansen

Co-Founder

HIT Entertainment

Producing at the intersection of books and screens comes with unique creative challenges, but just what are the ups and downs of adapting stories from the main kidlit age categories—picture books, middle-grade and young adult—and how can a producer avoid or manage those challenges effectively? In this session, author Jeff Norton is joined by experts in this field to provide expert tips for tackling book-to-screen projects. 

Speaking

Eddie Gamarra

CEO

The Gotham Group

Darragh O'Connell

Group Creative Director

Brown Bag Films

Asaph Fipke

Chief Content Officer, DHX Studios

Nerd Corps Entertainment (Vancouver)

Jeff Norton

Executive Producer

AWESOME MEDIA

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Sebastian Debertin

Head of International Content Acquisitions & Co-Productions

KiKA - Der Kinderkanal of ARD & ZDF

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Laurence Blaevoet

Head of Children's Programs and Channels

Canal + Youth Department

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Caroline Cochaux

Producer

Lagardere Active Tv Channels -Gulli, CanalJ, Tiji, McM, JuneTv-

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Michael Goldsmith

Head of Kids and Family

DHX Media

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Linda Simensky

Head of Animation & Scripted Content

PBS KIDS

Join us as we celebrate the year’s best kids programming, broadcasting and digital media efforts at our annual Kidscreen Awards Ceremony, hosted by a renowned television personality Jessi Cruickshank, the recent host of Canada’s Smartest Person and the host of numerous programs that have aired on MTV Canada, Style Network, CTV, E! and NBC News. Be sure to stay for the after-party and hang with the winners and judges! 

Speaking

Host

Jessi Cruickshank

Television Personality, Actress & Global Ambassador

The producers who best understand the capabilities of emerging media platforms will be able to optimize their content most effectively―and create the deepest engagement for the biggest audiences. While this may sound simple, deciding what this optimization looks like is anything but. For starters, some claim this generation has abandoned “consumable” narrative media in favor of “shareable” social media, while others like Netflix contend VOD will usher in a new age of totally immersive long-form epic storytelling. So which direction to choose? Our panel of kids media pros will have plenty of opinions on the shape of things to come.

Speaking

Eric Foster White

CEO

ShowMobile

Gary Pope

CEO

Kids Industries

Julien Borde

President

France Télévisions

Heath Kenny

Founder, You and Eye Creative & Virtual CCO, Mercury Filmworks

Gaumont Animation

Jesse Cleverly

Creative Director

Wildseed Studios

Factual entertainment for kids that’s produced in a variety of techniques has really come into its own as a hot genre in the kids space, but transitioning to this kind of content can present a number of issues for traditional animation producers. This session, produced by Justine Bannister, will take a look at the market demand for kids factual fare, associated production costs, financial models and the creative challenges involved in making reality-type programming that connects with target demos including preschool, kids and tweens/teens.

Speaking

Michael Carrington

Founder & Executive Producer

ABC-TV

Dylan Collins

CEO

Superawesome

Jon Rutherford

President, Global Rights, Franchise & Content Strategy, Boat Rocker Studios

Tricon Films & Television

Michelle Sullivan

Head of U.S. Development Kids & Family Gaumont

National Geographic

Sarah Baynes

Creative Director

The Creative Garden

With 180 million children under the age of eight in China, its family market is already the world’s largest. But how do you crack it open or even sign your first deal? Our panel of Chinese and Western media executives will share insights to help you unlock the secrets to entering the massive Chinese kids market. They'll explore the cultural nuances of business cards and dinners that shape a successful introduction and meeting, and examine the critical role that company profiles play in doing business in China. Finally, the panel will discuss the delicate issues of carrying out contracts and payments in the world's most populous country.

Speaking

James Chen Gu

General Manager, Animation Studio

UYoung (Tianjin) Animation Culture & Media Co., Ltd.

Josh Selig

Founder & President

Little Airplane Productions

Sharon Gomes

Head of Production

Little Airplane Productions

Adrian Roche

Co-CEO

Auldey Toys North America

Sit down one-on-one with top broadcasters and investors who have the power to greenlight your project. This highly effective networking format will feature 8-minute meetings again this year, giving you ample time to deliver the perfect pitch. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Karen K.Miller

President & CEO

Disney Channels Worldwide

Melissa Wolfe

Head, Animation Development

Amazon Studios

Lisa O'Brien

Creative Consultant

Sprout

Jamie Piekarz

Content Producer/Creative Consultant

Corus Kids

Massimo Bruno

Director, TV Channels

De Agostini

Orion Ross

VP Animation

Disney Channels EMEA

Jackie Edwards

Head of Fund, YACF (Young Audiences Content Fund)

CBeebies

Chapman Maddox

Vice President of Content

FremantleMedia

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Linda Simensky

Head of Animation & Scripted Content

PBS KIDS

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Pauline Macnamara

Executive Producer, Animation & Commissioning

Radio Telefis Eireann- RTE Ireland

Sheila de Courcy

RTE Group Head of Childrens and Controller Rtéjr

Radio Telefis Eireann- RTE Ireland

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Sarah Haasz

Producer

DHX Media

Michael Goldsmith

Head of Kids and Family

DHX Media

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Alison Stewart

Children’s Media Consultant and Producer

BBC Children's

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Peter Gal

Chief Creative Officer, Television

DreamWorks Animation

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

David Levine

Vice President, Kids Programming, Europe & Africa/UK & Ireland

The Walt Disney Company (EMEA)

Online talent is gaining more and more traction in kids entertainment. Just look at the traffic flocking to YouTube star channels like PewDiePie, who has 32 million subscribers and counting. While traditional prodcos are starting to scope out the space, there's a lot to learn about tracking down hot content creators and how their existing relationships with YouTube MCNs might impact their work on other platforms. Join our panel of leaders in the online and mobile landscape as they outline what the new deals with talent look like, how they evaluate credibility and starpower, and how deals might differ between live action and animation creators.

Speaking

Rhiannon Apple

VP Integrated Marketing

Fullscreen Inc.

Reed Berglund

CEO

FullBottle Group, Inc.

Jeremy Dickson

n/a

Kidscreen

Michael Ross

General Manager, Family

Maker Studios

Fred Seibert

CEO

Frederator Networks

Staying one step ahead of the digital curve is crucial for keeping stories relevant to today’s generation of plugged-in kids. And it looks like producers and kidnets are heeding the call to make technology part of the storytelling. But the challenge, of course, is staying on the bleeding edge without creating programming that becomes dated as quickly as the next-gen iPhone. We've assembled an expert panel to take you through the ins and outs of navigating this tricky space.

Speaking

Sergi Reitg

Vice President Premium Content. Sony Music Vision

Imira Entertainment

Sarah Muller

Senior Head of Commissioning (7+)

CBBC

Jennifer Burkitt

Founder & Creative Director

Log Cabin Productions

Halle Stanford

President of Television, Executive Producer

The Jim Henson Company

Sander Schwartz

Producer

We know not everyone has the time to scour the web for amazing feats in new technology, so we’re bringing a few of the most outstanding innovations poised to affect the kids business to Kidscreen Summit. Make sure you’re in the room for the big reveal.  

Speaking

Jay Silver

CEO and Founder

JoyLabz/Makey Makey

Henry Hsiao

VP, Strategic Development

HIT Entertainment / Mattel Inc.

Michael Houlahan

Head of Enterprise

ToyTalk

Daniel Bays

SVP, Development

BBC Children's

Jon Howard

Executive Product Manager

BBC

Sit down one-on-one with top broadcasters and investors who have the power to greenlight your project. This highly effective networking format will feature 8-minute meetings again this year, giving you ample time to deliver the perfect pitch. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Lynn Oldershaw

Consultant

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

Layla Lewis

SVP, Global Acquisitions & Content Partnerships, Kids & Family Group

Nickelodeon

Keith Kennebeck

Director, Children’s Programming

PBS

Jackie Edwards

Head of Fund, YACF (Young Audiences Content Fund)

CBeebies

Chapman Maddox

Vice President of Content

FremantleMedia

Leah Wolfson

Production Executive, Original Programming, Corus Kids

Corus Kids

Massimo Bruno

Director, TV Channels

De Agostini

Andrew Thomas

VP, Content Partnerships

Hulu

Natalie Dumoulin

VP of Creative Affairs

9 Story Media Group

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Cecilia Persson

Managing Director, BBC Studios Kids & Family

Turner Broadcasting System EMEA

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Joe D'Ambrosia

EVP & General Manager

Disney ABC Television Group

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Benjamin Grubbs

Director, Global Head of Top Creators

YouTube

Kids are unquestionably taking their viewing online, and not just to Netflix. New ad-supported and SVOD services geared to children have been cropping up at a quick clip over the past 18 months, turning VOD from a buzzword to a bona fide business development strategy. This panel discussion will explore the main challenges facing the newest crop of VOD services, as well as gauging how business is growing in this space (if it really is), and when the VOD movement might start really paying out.

Speaking

Tara Sorensen

Head of Children's Programming

Amazon Studios

Malcolm Bird

COO

The Viddiverse

Greg Alkalay

CEO

batteryPOP

Michael Lowe

CEO

Kidoodle.TV

Derek Sentner

VP Sales & Business Development

Driver Digital

Join this fast-paced, curated romp through the most hilarious and inspired work you’ve likely never seen. Hosted by kids and millennial expert Amy Friedman, a panel of guest YouTube, Vine and YouNow makers and curators will each share their top-three picks from all over the web, with brief backstories on how the content got made, shared and used.

Speaking

Mark Douglas

Producer, Barely Political

Google / Youtube

Jake Roper

Host & Producer

Vsauce3

Anastasia Douglas

Operations Strategist, YouTube Creative Strategy

Google / Youtube

Amy Friedman

Founder & President

Senior Advisor, MTV Scratch

Sit down one-on-one with top broadcasters and investors who have the power to greenlight your project. This highly effective networking format will feature 8-minute meetings again this year, giving you ample time to deliver the perfect pitch. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Frank Saperstein

CEO & Executive Producer

Tricon Media

Marion Winter

Senior Manager, Content Acquisitions & Co-Productions

Super RTL

Pierre Siracusa

Head Of Children’S & Education

France Télévisions

Stephanie Betts

Executive Vice President, Content Creation

DHX Media

Liliana Reyes

SVP Content

Portfolio Entertainment

Alison Stewart

Children’s Media Consultant and Producer

BBC Children's

Géraldine Soto

Head of Acquisitions, Prebuys & Co-Productions, Kids Content

Canal+

Athena Georgaklis

Executive Producer, Creative & Business Strategy

Corus Entertainment

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Maud Branly

Director, Children's Acquisitions & International TV Channels Programming

Lagardere Active

Caroline Cochaux

Producer

Lagardere Active Tv Channels -Gulli, CanalJ, Tiji, McM, JuneTv-

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Jamie Piekarz

Content Producer/Creative Consultant

Corus Kids

A returning favourite at the Summit, our 30 Minutes With…sessions give you a chance to hear about the future plans and priorities of the kids industry’s major content investors first-hand, as well as  participate in some Q&A and meet-and-greets. You are welcome to attend as many of these popular buyer briefing sessions as you can fit into your schedule! Space will be filled on a first-come, first-seated basis until we hit room capacity. 

Speaking

Meg Marshall

Programming Manager

DISH Network, LLC

The Big Make-Believe Network is returning to Kidscreen Summit, and two new series will be chosen to compete for a top slot in this death-defying live development session! A pair of creator/writer teams will present their pitches live on stage and make adjustments in real time, based on notes thrown at them by a panel of broadcast, licensing and production executives.

Speaking

Orion Ross

VP Animation

Disney Channels EMEA

Rich Maryyanek

Partner and Chief Marketing Officer

Big Tent Entertainment

Peter Gal

Chief Creative Officer, Television

DreamWorks Animation

Sebastian Debertin

Head of International Content Acquisitions & Co-Productions

KiKA - Der Kinderkanal of ARD & ZDF

Dave Skwarczek

Writer and Producer

Eat Your Lunch

Sit down one-on-one with top broadcasters and investors who have the power to greenlight your project. This highly effective networking format will feature 8-minute meetings again this year, giving you ample time to deliver the perfect pitch. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Frank Saperstein

CEO & Executive Producer

Tricon Media

Pierre Siracusa

Head Of Children’S & Education

France Télévisions

Marion Winter

Senior Manager, Content Acquisitions & Co-Productions

Super RTL

Stephanie Betts

Executive Vice President, Content Creation

DHX Media

Liliana Reyes

SVP Content

Portfolio Entertainment

Géraldine Soto

Head of Acquisitions, Prebuys & Co-Productions, Kids Content

Canal+

Sarah Muller

Senior Head of Commissioning (7+)

CBBC

Hugues Dufour

Production Executive

TELETOON

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Andrew Beecham

Consultant

Sprout

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Frank Dietz

Head of Acquisitions &
Co-Productions

Super RTL

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Barry Koch

SVP/GM, Cartoon Network, Latin America

Cartoon Network

Chat over drinks with leading kids broadcasters in this brand-new format that aims to loosen up the networking vibe and help you make deeper connections at channels that buy kids programming. This is designed as a networking opportunity, folks, so please save your pitch for a private meeting. NOTE: Advance sign-up required

Speaking

Kim Wilson

Director

Canadian Broadcasting Corporation