Documentary Experts Meeting & Pitching Sessions- 2026 Autumn Session

The 2026 Autumn sequel of the EBU Documentary Experts meeting/pitching session will take place in Amsterdam on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 November 2026 during IDFA. More detailed information will be shared in due time, but you are already invited to block these dates in your agendas.

The call for submissions will be issued on Thursday 20 August the latest with a deadline for submissions on Monday 21 September.

Lead Broadcasters whose projects are selected for the pitch will be notified in early October while the full list of selected projects, along with the meeting agenda, will be made public by Wednesday 14 October at the latest.

Registration for the meeting will open at the same time. 

Scout and prepare your STRONGEST proposals and be ready to submit ahead of the deadline! Projects criteria are available here below. Board members are available for advice on your submission.

We are looking for:

• Documentaries and series that are universal and relevant across Europe,
• Films and series that audiences, and in particular substantial young, diverse audiences will want to watch and engage with on TV and online,
• Films and series that will have real impact, with exceptional marketing potential and the ability to create a real noise on social media and in the wider world.

 Films or series which:

• Push the boundaries with daring and captivating new forms of storytelling,
• Are binge-worthy series, accessible crowd pleasers,
• Are potential A-list festival contenders,
• Have a modern approach / visualisation,
• Have popularity to reach a broader audience,
• Have potential for primetime programming,
• Topic is relevant,
• Have a new approach / originality,
• Have international appeal,
• Are feasible.

During the meeting, we will proceed with the election of a new Board (two-year mandate). Find out what board membership involves. EBU member representatives interested in standing should contact Karen Simha by Thursday 1 October