Writers Guild South Africa (WGSA) is calling on members and performance writers to attend the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE), an international content creation and sales market which takes place from 20 to 22 January 2015 in Miami. The initiative is part of the WGSA’s application to the Department of Trade and Industry’s Group Export Sector Specific Assistance Scheme (SSAS), which offers emerging content writers assistance in promoting their projects at top international events.
NATPE is an evolved market which strives to meet the demands of an increasingly digital media industry. Offering attendee access to content before other leading industry events, it is able to give leaders a head-start on monetizing their projects.
All events, workshops, displays and awards are focused on the content value chain and cater to professionals in the business of buying, selling, developing, financing, advertising, marketing or licensing content as well as those who implement technology, exploit rights, or leverage media assets.
Though there is no guarantee that the DTI will approve the group application, the scheme entails that the DTI pay suppliers for flights, transfers and accommodation, including breakfast and dinner, up-front. Costs for the group’s stand at the market, the printing of brochures and the freighting of promotional materials would also be covered. Though mainly geared at emerging writers, the group scheme does allow for a small group of experienced writers as well, but preference will be given to previously disadvantaged applicants, particularly those who have never attended an international film and script market before.
The closing date for electronic applications has been extended to Monday 23 June 2014 at 12h00.
Visit the SASFED website for a full list of rules, application requirements and additional information.
