Cartoon Business returns this year with an invigorating programme tailored to help industry professionals navigate the ever-evolving animation landscape. Set against a backdrop of economic challenges, the conference emphasises a spirit of pragmatism, resilience and collaboration to create new opportunities and foster renewed optimism in the sector. Taking place once again in Brussels from 18-20 November, the gathering offers a range of keynotes, panels and case studies, focusing on key areas including funding, digital strategy, and the potential of AI and private equity.

Kicking off on 19 November, the conference programme begins with a case study on Belgian animation financing. With Cartoon Business now based in Brussels, this session examines the unique funding landscape in the country, featuring insights from Hugo Deghilage, of Panique!, and Viviane Vanfleteren, of Vivi Film. Together with Screen Flanders' Katrien Maes, they will outline how local grants, tax shelters and funds have supported projects like The Polar Bear Prince and Savages [+leggi anche:
recensione
trailer
scheda film].

Following this, YouTube’s influence on content creation grabs the spotlight. Ylka Tapia, content acquisitions and partnership manager for El Reino Infantil, one of the platform’s top children’s channels, will offer insights into digital-first strategies and how creators can successfully partner with YouTube to reach global audiences.

The morning concludes with an upbeat panel exploring optimism within the animation industry. Vanessa Brookman, of Warner Bros Discovery, and Julien Borde, of Mediawan Kids & Family, will discuss the shifts in the market and the emerging opportunities amidst adversity, moderated by journalist Nico Franks.

In the afternoon, attention shifts to AI’s role in animation. Charlie Fink from Forbes Media will join Cathal Gaffney, of Brown Bag Films, and Lauri Saunders from ABRACA to discuss AI’s transformative potential, from business innovation to ethical practices, creating an essential discussion for any studio looking to integrate AI responsibly.

Rounding off the day are two pivotal sessions. First, Alex Cameron, of Parrot Analytics, shares how producers can assess the market value of their IP, emphasising the importance of data in decision-making. The final keynote features Jo Daris, of Toon2Tango, who will advocate for a “survival of the smartest” approach, detailing strategies for growth and resilience that animation companies can employ for long-term success.

The activities of 20 November begin with a spotlight on Studio 100, a Belgian animation powerhouse known globally for shows like Samson and Gert. CEOs Anja Van Mensel and Martin Krieger will offer a rare look at Studio 100’s journey from a local success to an international brand and share how they’re adapting to current market challenges.

Pubcasters then take centre stage in a panel on the future of linear broadcasting. Reps from VRT-Ketnet, STVR, France Télévisions and Hessischer Rundfunk will discuss how broadcasters are adjusting to a fragmented and competitive media environment by prioritising digital and cross-media projects, and offering practical advice to content creators.

A later keynote by Lydia Mossahebi from the BBC examines the British pubcaster’s cross-platform expansion, including partnerships with platforms like Roblox, to meet diverse audience needs. This session provides practical insights for producers interested in digital collaboration and expanding their content’s reach.

Next, Alix Wiseman from 9 Story Media Group, Edward Galton from Cake Entertainment and Julia Weber, of Epsilon Film, will discuss their strategies for weathering financial downturns, and offer advice for producers seeking funding or distribution opportunities.

One of the subsequent panels centres on the challenges faced by studios in Central and Eastern Europe. In it, Martin Juza from Czech studio Krutart shares his approach to building a resilient animation business with minimal state support, highlighting how studios can diversify revenue streams to achieve financial independence.

Later, a panel on business accelerators features insights from Katrin Ann Orbetam, of Mash&Co, Lucas Perin, of the CNC, and Eliza Jäppinen, of Dot Play. This session explores how accelerator programs can help studios expand their management skills, develop IP and secure funding through innovative structures like blockchain technology.

Cartoon Business will wrap up with an interactive “End of the Show” round-table, moderated by John Lomas-Bullivant. Featuring an open Q&A, this lively session invites attendees to engage directly with a range of speakers, encouraging a final exchange of ideas and experiences.

Alongside the rich conference programme, Carton Business will host one-on-meetings and a job fair unspooling on 18 November, where young talents can meet with industry professionals at the Comic Art Museum. The job fair aims to bridge the gap between emerging artists and established studios, fostering employment opportunities and early networking.

Moreover, a brand-new initiative will be introduced, called the Business Clinic. This networking opportunity will connect participants attending the event with specialists during coaching sessions on animation-related business issues. The Business Clinic will allow participants, including newer entrants to the industry, to ask specific questions and receive targeted advice from experienced consultants.