Basic Lead Bolsters DISCOPRO Program

LOS ANGELES/JOHANNESBURG: Trade-event organizer Basic Lead has expanded the DISCOPRO pitching, training and matchmaking program, conducted in parallel to DISCOP Africa.

The 2015 agenda for DISCOPRO will put a special focus on strengthening relationships between Kenya and South Africa in an effort to revive the current co-production MOU between the two countries. The DISCOPRO schedule features 36 workshops about content development, content funding and content monetization. The agenda also includes six pitching competitions, as well as matchmaking sessions for projects that require funding and international distribution.

“Launched four years ago, the DISCOPRO program has grown to become a pan-African business accelerator effectively helping established and up-and-coming producers market ideas, broaden knowledge and connect with potential investors,” commented Patrick Zuchowicki, the general manager of Basic Lead. “The program offers a unique opportunity to get projects financed and to rub shoulders with established production, commissioning, distribution and advertising executives with the power to affect viewing and purchase decisions in Africa’s booming television ecosystem.”

“With the transition to digital broadcasting, it is an exciting time for content development in Africa and we are thrilled to be working on the DISCOPRO program to provide industry stakeholders with a platform to engage,” said Wangeci Murage, the managing partner at the Nairobi-based consultancy Media Pros Africa, which has partnered with market organizers on this year’s event. “Content developers and distribution platforms in Africa are seeking new ways to deliver programming to their growing audiences and the DISCOPRO training and pitching forums will explore myriad opportunities that the industry can tap into.”

DISCOP Africa will be held November 4 to 6 in Johannesburg.