The National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE) has wrapped the return of the first in-person NATPE Budapest after three years. “We have experienced a very energized and dynamic event here in Budapest. It has been especially gratifying to see so many CEE-based buyers and sellers, broadcasters and distributors together in one spot to network and conduct a raft of deals with international companies,” said JP Bommel, President and CEO of NATPE.
Distributors and producers from more than 80 countries wrapped up three days of business and signed distribution deals across the entire region. Studios from the United States were present in Budapest to screen their content fresh from the LA Screenings, which had a high level of attendance - comparable to the last in-person NATPE Budapest international in 2019. The Ukraine and Finland were also among the countries holding screenings.
NATPE also welcomed several international Pavilions in Budapest including the ICEX Spanish Pavilion, the Türkiye Pavilion supported by the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, and a Ukraine Pavilion hosted by NATPE. Meanwhile, the popular Pitch & Play Live! competition, which highlights CEE created formats with international potential, took place on Wednesday with "Supergrandma," from Ukraine’s StarLightMedia, being the ultimate winner.
Furthermore, in true NATPE tradition, the three-day event was packed with parties and networking receptions, culminating with a red carpet evening event for all participants sponsored by Kanal D at Budapest's hot spot Ötkert Night Club, featuring talent from Kanal D’s drama series “Three Sisters.”
“As we welcomed newcomers and past participants showcasing a plethora of new content, we now look forward to taking this enthusiasm for content, connectivity and dealmaking to our flagship event NATPE Global in January 2023 at Baha Mar, Nassau,” Bommel added, while confirming that NATPE Budapest International will return on June 27-29, 2023.