Beyond the Frame: New Possibilities in Non-Fiction Formats, Funding & Distribution

As the world navigates rapid change, what role do documentaries play in 2025? A bold documentary filmmaker explores the challenges and opportunities for filmmakers, highlighting the power of storytelling to inform, inspire, and uplift audiences in uncertain times.

Speaker: Prof. Marianna Kaat, Filmmaker, Head of Docs@PÖFF (Black Nights Film Festival), Estonia

The documentary marketplace is undergoing major changes, and some people feel it is facing a crisis. But what if those challenges also represent opportunities? This presentation will focus on ten big trends impacting the documentary business, and artform, and propose ways filmmakers and the industry can use these same trends to imagine new artistic and business practices and imagine new futures for the sector.

Speaker: Brian Newman, CEO, SubGenre Media

The documentary landscape is evolving, with new formats, shifting markets, and changing business models reshaping storytelling and distribution. As short-form, digital platforms, Mediatheken, vertical video, and series gain traction, where is the real opportunity for filmmakers? This panel explores how to adapt, find funding, and reach audiences in a rapidly transforming industry.

Speakers: 

Thilo Kasper, Team Lead Content Strategy, ARD Mediathek

Lena Müller, Head of Acquisitions, Quintus Studios

Justin Crosby, Founder and CEO of TellyCast, UK

Moderator: Adam Gee, Head of Documentary Campus Masterschool / Head od Content DocHearts

Presentation of three case studies of new successful formats.

When traditional funding falls short, creative solutions step in. This session explores innovative financing models, including crowdfunding, social impact funds, and alternative funding strategies. A panel of industry experts, platform representatives, and strategists will share insights on how filmmakers can secure funding beyond conventional sources and make their projects a reality. A case study will guide us through the process.

Speakers: 

Tim David Müller-Zitzke (Producer)  "Projekt:Artarktis", financed via Sponsoring and NFT

Brian Newman, CEO SubGenre Media

Toni Kamau, producer

Moderator: Anna Ramskogler-Witt

How can documentaries reach new audiences in an ever-changing media landscape? This session explores innovative marketing strategies, audience engagement tactics, and impact-driven distribution. Experts from marketing agencies, audience designers, impact strategists, and distributors will share insights on how to connect with diverse and global viewers.

Speakers:

Natalie Müller Elmau, Channel Manager, Non-Fiction Formats, ZDF

Marc Biskup, Lead Innovation Manager, IDA

Ewa Bojanowska, Audience Designer

Moderator: Paul Rieth

A hands-on session to explore audience engagement and marketing strategies for your documentary. Through micro-strategy development, match-making, and speed dating with funders, impact agencies, marketing experts, distributors, and audience designers, participants will discover who can help, what works, and how to expand their reach. Connect, strategize, and find the best approach for your film’s success!

Experts: Tim-David Müller Zitzke (Producer), Marc Biskup (Innovation Manager), Ewa Bojanowska (Audience Designer), Adam Gee (Producer/Head of Content)

The documentary distribution landscape is shifting. Which channels still work, which are fading, and what’s emerging? This session explores the evolution of distribution, from traditional models to new platforms, helping filmmakers navigate the changing marketplace and find sustainable paths for their films.

Speakers: 

Danielle Turkov Wilson, Think Film

Anouk van Dijk, Head of Sales & Co-Productions, Quintus Studios

Ana Maria Jipa, CEO, OLYN 

Anna Ramskogler-Witt, Artistic Director & Co-founder, The Good Media Network

Ryan Kane, Utopia Distribution

Moderator: Paul Rieth

This hands-on session helps filmmakers explore sustainable distribution models and develop customized strategies for their films. Gain 1:1 feedback from industry experts, discover new platforms and tactics, and connect with fellow filmmakers. In this collaborative environment, you’ll refine your approach to navigate the changing documentary landscape and build connections for future success.

Experts: Tim-David Müller Zitzke, Ewa Bojanowska, Adam Gee

Taking into account the conversations over the last two days, what conclusions can we draw about the future of non-fiction storytelling?