Sept 25 – 27,
2024
Made possible with the support of Ontario Creates
The Animation Conference (TAC)
This animation business forum is designed for professionals in content creation, development, production, distribution and marketing. TAC brings together key players in North America and international markets and provides a forum for active networking, practical information exchange, and trade in a comfortable and intimate environment. Running alongside the OIAF, attendees also get access to some of the world’s best talent in animation.
New for 2024! TAC moves to a new venue at the National Arts Centre (NAC) at 1 Elgin St.
Make Connections
TAC is one of the best industry events you’ll find for networking. Make solid connections at organized pitching events and casual parties.
Don’t miss favourite events such as Mercury Filmwork’s Pitch THIS! and Fast Track, presented by Spin Master, a speed-meeting session that gets you in front of the buyers and production executives you want to meet.
Enjoy a coffee from the Pipeline Studios coffee stations and head into the TAC Delegate Lounge in the O’Born Room (Level 3 / Terrace Level) which will be open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm on Wednesday and Thursday for TAC Anima pass holders to take meetings, have a break, or enjoy lunch.
The Toon Boom Boat Cruise is the perfect opportunity to catch up with other TAC delegates in an informal and intimate setting. This 2-hour sightseeing cruise tours Parliament Hill, The Canadian Museum of History, Rideau Falls, and other popular sites in the beautiful Capital. The Boat Cruise bus shuttle service runs from 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm from Sparks St. & Elgin St.
Join fellow passholders for a delicious lunch on the Wednesday presented by IDA Ireland and Thursday presented by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment of TAC. For an end-of-the-day toast on Thursday – head to Jackson Café, 10 Daly Avenue, for the 5 à 7 Cocktail Reception.
Art + Biz Day returns this year on Friday morning for some exciting programming that will help all creators find their career paths. OIAF in partnership with the BRIC Foundation presents Art + Biz Day: BRIC @ TAC, a full morning of programming focused on breaking, reinventing, impacting, and changing the animation industry. Open to all TAC and Animapass holders. Learn more at: animationfestival.ca/tac/artbiz/
Afterwards, jump on a double-decker bus at Arts Court, 2 Daly Avenue, to go to the Animators’ Picnic.
TAC 2024 features a line-up of talks to help you navigate the animation industry today.
TAC Day 1 Schedule
Wednesday, September 25
National Arts Centre (NAC), 1 Elgin St.
9:00 am – 9:10 am Opening Remarks
9:00 am – 11:45 am Pitch THIS Semi-Finals
9:15 am – 10:00 am Meet the Broadcasters, Part 1
10:15 am – 11:00 am Meet the Broadcasters, Part 2
11:15 am – 12:15 pm The Emerald Lens: Exploring Ireland’s Animation and Storytelling Legacy
12:15 pm – 1:30 pm TAC Luncheon presented by IDA Ireland
12:45 pm – 1:45 pm How To Pitch: A Workshop with Olan Rogers
1:30 pm – 1:45 pm Toon Boom introduction
1:45 pm – 2:30 pm State of the Industry: Building a Roadmap for the Future
2:15 pm – 3:15 pm Fast Track: Classic (Session 1/3)
2:45 pm – 3:30 pm The Power of Indigenous Animation
3:30 pm – 4:00 pm Boat Cruise Shuttle Service from Sparks St. & Elgin St.
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm Toon Boom Boat Cruise, Ottawa River via Gatineau Dock
Day 1: Panels and Activities
20th Edition Opening Remarks
9:00 am – 9:10 am
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
As this is the 20th edition of TAC, the OIAF would like to express gratitude for the ongoing support from attendees, partners, and supporters who have contributed to the growth of the conference.
Speakers:
Tom McSorley, Executive Director, Canadian Film Institute (CFI)
Michael Hirsh, Author, Animation Nation, & CEO, Floating Island Entertainment
2024 TAC Programmers::
Kelly Neall, Managing Director, Canadian Film Institute
Amanda Misko, Industry Programming Manager, Canadian Film Institute
With thanks to:
Maral Mohammadian, Producer, National Film Board of Canada (NFB)
Azarin Sohrabkhani, Senior Manager, Events, Netflix
Frank Taylor, Consultant and former Director of the Canadian Film Institute (CFI)
Meet the Broadcasters, Part 1
9:15 am – 10:00 am
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Meet decision-makers from CBC Kids, and TVO Kids, to hear about their current and future priorities. Panelists will discuss how they receive pitches and what they should include. They will provide insight into what’s working well for their audiences and what’s not, and how this will impact future decisions. Learn what motivates their preferences and how they work to ensure brand identity and viewer preferences.
Panelists:
Marie McCann, Senior Director of Children’s and Youth Content, CBC Kids
Kirsten Hurd, Commissioning Editor, TVOkids
Moderator:
Andrea Griffith, VP of Content and Development, Sphere Media
Meet the Broadcasters, Part 2
10:15 am – 11:00 am
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Continue the conversation with broadcasters who create for kids and adults. Hear from PBS KIDS, Adult Swim, & TFO about what’s new on those platforms. Panelists will discuss how they acquire content and what their current priorities are. They will provide insight into what their audiences are watching and what the future of content looks like. Understand what drives buyer preferences and how they contribute to maintaining brand identity.
Panelists:
Tommy Gillespie, Senior Director, Content Production PBS KIDS
Cameron Tang, VP of Development, Adult Swim
Marianne Lambert, Director of Co-productions and Acquisitions, TFO
Moderator:
Archita Ghosh, President, Rezolution Pictures
The Emerald Lens: Exploring Ireland’s Animation and Storytelling Legacy
Presented by Enterprise Ireland
11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Join key Irish innovators to explore universal tales that transcend borders! Ireland’s passion for storytelling and the arts has cultivated a culture uniquely suited for world-class animation studios to flourish. Historically known as the island of saints, scholars, and storytellers, Ireland has consistently produced top creative talents whose art resonates globally. What’s the secret behind this remarkable talent pool? If you’re considering a fantastic co-production partner, search no further! The session, moderated by industry veteran Mary Bredin, will delve into how storytelling and the craft of animation propel us into the future!
Panelists:
Alex Sherwood, CEO / Head of Development, Giant Animation
Andrew Kavanagh, Founder & CEO, Kavaleer Productions Limited
Vanessa Robinson, CEO & Co-founder, Little Moon Animation
Graham Holbrook, Creative Director, Treehouse Republic
Ronan McCabe, CEO, Animation Ireland
Moderator:
Mary Bredin, Creative Director, Green Tiger Consulting
TAC Luncheon presented by IDA Ireland
12:15 pm – 1:30 pm
O’Born Room (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Enjoy a delicious meal with your fellow delegates and find out why Ireland’s passion for storytelling and the arts, world-class talent pool, business-friendly environment, and animation tax credits have created a culture perfectly suited for world-class animation studios to thrive.
How To Pitch: A Workshop with Olan Rogers
12:45 pm – 1:45 pm
Al Zaibak Lantern Room (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Director, actor and content creator Olan Rogers is here to share his journey and tips for pitching projects. As the creator of Netflix’s space opera comedy Final Space, Olan knows how to prepare a pitch bible, or pitch presentation, and hang on during the development process. Come hang out with Olan and be inspired to take your pitch out of this world!
Guest:
Olan Rogers, Director, Actor, Storyteller
State of the Industry: Building a Roadmap for the Future
1:30 pm – 1:45 pm Toon Boom introduction
1:45 pm – 2:30 pm Panel Presentation
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
The animation industry is undergoing significant transformations driven by changes to the broadcaster and streamer landscape as well as new technologies. This panel will explore what strategies companies can use to adapt and thrive in this dynamic environment, how Canadian funding programs can bolster the industry, and what the implications of the Online Streaming Act are for Canadian producers. This realistic and open conversation about the evolution of the animation industry, moderated by the CMPA, will feature insights from leading professionals.
Panelists:
Moyra Rodger, Founder & CEO, Magnify Digital Inc.
Coral Schoug, VP, Production (Canada), Brown Bag Films | 9 Story
Frank Falcone, President and Executive Creative Director, Guru Studio
Jennifer Twiner McCarron, CEO, Atomic Cartoons/Thunderbird Entertainment
Moderator:
Lisa Broadfoot, Vice-President, Industry and Business Affairs, CMPA
The Power of Indigenous Animation
2:45 pm – 3:30 pm
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
To elevate Indigenous voices, the OIAF is privileged to partner with Impact Indigenous to present a panel spotlighting Indigenous animation creators and industry leaders. This panel celebrates the transformative power of Indigenous animation in preserving and uplifting Indigenous cultures and languages through creative storytelling. It will feature two case studies and honour an Indigenous creator with the symbolic Inspire 7 Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN). The case studies will shed light on best practices for collaborating with Indigenous creators, from developing a short demo to funding and producing Short Films, Branded Content, Feature Films and TV Series that revitalize Indigenous cultures and languages.
Words of Welcome:
Tom McSorley, Executive Director, Canadian Film Institute
Inuit Knowledge Keeper, Manitok Thompson, and U of Ottawa Knowledge Keeper
Panelists:
Manitok Thompson, Executive Director, Inuit Broadcasting Corporation (IBC)
Janet Evic, Archives project, Advisor on Takuginai
Angeline Ivalu, Producer of Takuginai
Terril Calder, Animation Artist, Filmmaker
Jim Compton, President and Principle Producer, Wabung Anung
Moderator:
Tera McDonald, Educator, Writer, Producer, Kalawikk Diversity Inc.
Introduction to Award:
Joëlle Saltel, Manager of Communications, Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN)
Video Message:
Monika Ille, Chief Executive Officer / Executive Management, Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN)
Inspire 7 Lifetime Achievement Award Award Recipient:
Jerry Thevenet, Filmmaker & President, JerryCO Animation
Coordinated by Impact Indigenous:
Tera McDonald, Educator, Writer, Producer, Kalawikk Diversity Inc.
Tanya Kelen, Programing Consultant, Producer/Distributor Kelencontent
Toon Boom Boat Cruise
3:30 pm – 4:00 pm
The Toon Boom Boat Cruise bus shuttle service runs between 3:30 pm and 4:00 pm, leaving from the corner of Sparks St. and Elgin St. to the Ottawa Boat Cruise Gatineau dock.
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm Toon Boom Boat Cruise
Ottawa River
The perfect opportunity to catch up with other TAC delegates and grow your network in an informal and intimate setting. This 2-hour sightseeing cruise tours Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, Rideau Falls, and other popular sites in the beautiful Capital. Guests will be treated to drinks and charcuterie. Catch a shuttle to make it to the boat before launch!
TAC Day 2 Schedule
Thursday, September 26
National Arts Centre (NAC), 1 Elgin St.
9:00 am – 9:45 am Are you Pivoting to Adapt? How Ontario Studios are Facing Today’s Industry Realities
9:00 am – 10:00 am Fast Track: Pitch Development (Session 1/1)
10:00 am – 11:00 am Innovators on YouTube
11:15 am – 12:15 pm Animation from Spain: Upcoming Original Films
11:30 am – 12:15 pm Ask an Expert: Edwards Creative Law
12:15 pm – 1:45 pm TAC Luncheon presented by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment
12:45 pm – 1:45 pm Fast Track: Classic (Session 2/3)
1:45 pm – 2:30 pm Adapting Existing IP into Animation
2:15 pm – 3:15 pm Fast Track: Classic (Session 3/3)
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm A Tribute to Dulcie Clark by Jam Filled Entertainment
3:30 pm – 4:00 pm Coffee & Cake Break
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm Pitch THIS! Finale, presented in partnership with Mercury Filmworks
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm 5 à 7 Cocktail Reception, presented in partnership with Spin Master Entertainment
Day 2: Panels and Activities
Are you Pivoting to Adapt? How Ontario Studios are Facing Today’s Industry Realities
9:00 am – 9:45 am
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
As the global marketplace for animation experiences ongoing shifts and slowdowns, studios are faced with critical decisions on how to navigate these turbulent waters. Join the Computer Animation Studios of Ontario (CASO) as they bring together industry leaders to discuss diverse strategies studios are employing to adapt and thrive in these challenging times. From maintaining traditional production models to exploring innovative opportunities, new markets, and diversified services, our panel of studio executives will share their insights on how to remain competitive and creative in an ever-changing, challenging market.
Panelists:
Lori McIndoe, President, Jam Filled Entertainment
Laura Dundas, VP of Production, Guru Studio
Samara Melanson, EVP/Head of Studio, Ticket VFX
Moderator:
Sandrine Pechels de Saint Sardos, Ottawa Film Commissioner, Ottawa Film Office
Innovators on YouTube
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Discover the exciting evolution of animation business models, where YouTube has become a game-changer for creators and studios alike. Join us as we delve into two compelling case studies that reveal how this dynamic platform is reshaping the industry. Adrien Moretto, General Manager of Millimages, will share the remarkable journey of their hit channel, Molang Cartoon, and the launch of their latest venture, Molang YouTuber. Andy Coyle from Mercury Filmworks will take you behind the scenes of his series, Don’t Walk Home After Dark, and its rise to success on YouTube. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how innovative strategies on YouTube are transforming the way animation reaches and resonates with audiences worldwide.
Panelists:
Adrien Moretto, General Manager, Millimages
Andy Coyle, Producer / Director, Mercury Filmworks
Moderator:
Amid Amidi, Owner and Publisher, Cartoon Brew
Animation from Spain: Upcoming Original Films
Presented by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment
11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Top Producers with New International Projects
The Spanish animation industry is experiencing one of its sweetest moments as one of the leaders in European animation. Productions such as the award-winning “Robot Dreams” and “Sultana’s Dream” are examples of a committed industry that is extremely diverse and creative. Last year, 6 feature films, 25 short films, and 68 seasons of TV series were produced and distributed. Spain has more than 300 companies dedicated to animation and VFX. State and local support, technological development, and specialized schools are the icing of a dynamic industry with an international vocation.
Hear from three of the hottest producers in Spain share their skills in making ambitious productions viable, with international partners. They will unveil projects in the making in a unique opportunity to share the vision and engineering behind some of the most creatively relevant future animated films.
Panelists:
Claudio Lluberes, Founder and Chief Creative Director, Morgana Studios
Álvaro García González, Executive Producer, Hampa Studio SL
Chelo Loureiro, CEO, Abano Producións SL
Moderator:
Carolina López Caballero, Curator, ICEX. Trade and Investment
Ask an Expert: Edwards Creative Law
11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Al Zaibak Lantern Room (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Join entertainment lawyers from Edwards Creative Law for a presentation about legal considerations when producing animation. They will cover topics such as service and co-production contracts, financing, and more. Stop by, they’d love the opportunity to meet you! Bring your questions and join the discussion. More info: edwardslaw.ca/animation
TAC Luncheon presented by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment
12:15 pm – 1:45 pm
O’Born Room (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Join fellow TAC Passholders for a delicious tapas lunch presented by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment.
Adapting Existing IP into Animation
1:45 pm – 2:30 pm
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
With access to develop new content from large IP portfolios, these panelists are actively adapting children’s literature into animated projects; join experts from Trustbridge Entertainment, 9 Story Media Group, and Mercury Filmworks to discuss new and viable transmedia opportunities and strategies in animation. Gain insights into how studios and productions are adapting to the challenge of creating engaging content from established properties.
Panelists:
Kimberly Howitt, SVP, Development and Production, Trustbridge Entertainment
Phil Moorhead, Development Manager, 9 Story Media Group
Chantal Ling, VP of Original Series and Co-Productions, Mercury Filmworks
Moderator:
Dan Sarto, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Animation World Network (AWN.com)
A Tribute to Dulcie Clark by Jam Filled Entertainment
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Throughout her accomplished career, Dulcie Clark has made a tremendous impact on the animation community, both locally and internationally. It is an honour for Jam Filled to present her with the TAC Lifetime Achievement Award. Please join Dulcie and fellow TAC AnimaPass holders for the awards ceremony in the Rossy Pavilion followed by a cake reception in the Delegate Lounge to celebrate the significant contributions Dulcie has made to the animation industry.
Award Name: TAC Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Jam Filled Entertainment
Recipient: Dulcie Clark
Pitch THIS! Finale
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Rossy Pavilion (Level 3 / Terrace Level)
Presented in partnership with Mercury Filmworks, the OIAF’s annual Pitch THIS! pitching contest is an opportunity for Canadian creators to get noticed and kickstart their animated series concept! Learn more and meet the mentors on the Pitch THIS! webpage.
Hosts:
Chantal Ling, VP Original Series and Co-Productions, Mercury Filmworks
Emmanuelle Gignac, Supervising Director, Mercury Filmworks
Finale Jury:
Andrea Griffith, VP of Content and Development, Sphere Media
Cameron Tang, VP of Development, Adult Swim
Kirsten Hurd, Commissioning Editor, TVOkids
Swin Chang, Executive in Charge of Development and Production, CBC Kids
Tommy Gillespie, Senior Director, Content Production, PBS KIDS
5 à 7 Cocktail Reception
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Jackson Café, Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG)
Head to Jackson Café, in the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) at 10 Daly Ave, to close out the second day of TAC with a 5 à 7 Cocktail Reception presented in partnership with Spin Master Entertainment.
