CALL FOR PROJECTS
The WRITERS’ VISION PITCH is aimed at independent writers, creators and creative producers developing original fictional series concepts with a distinctive creative voice. The focus is on exciting, innovative projects that are not yet attached to existing production structures.
A jury of seasoned industry professionals will select eight projects to be pitched live on stage in Cologne, where they’ll be presented to an international audience of broadcasters, streamers, and producers - aiming to build partnerships and drive the projects forward.
In addition, up to 20 further projects will be included in the DIGITAL STORY EXCHANGE - a curated digital project database accessible to all accredited participants prior to the event, enabling targeted networking and direct contact opportunities.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
- The project must be submitted and presented by the writer / creator.
- Writers / creators must be the original authors of the series. In the case of an adaptation of existing IP, appropriate proof of rights must be included with the submission.
- Only the concept for the first season of a fictional series in development may be submitted. Projects based on already existing or released formats - such as second seasons - as well as projects already in production are not eligible for participation.
- Each person may submit up to two projects, but only one project can be selected.
- The project must not be attached to a broadcaster, streamer, or distributor (if it is, please check whether your project better fits the criteria for submission to the CO-PRODUCTION PITCH).
- Only fictional series are eligible. Submissions for children’s, documentary, or animated series cannot be considered.
- All genres (drama, dramedy, thriller, science fiction, historical drama, crime, comedy, coming-of-age, etc.) and formats (miniseries, procedurals, mixed-media projects, etc.) are eligible to apply.
- The project must consist of at least four episodes. Vertical or short-form formats are also eligible.
- The project must not have been presented at any other market or festival. Exceptions apply to presentations made as part of training programs (e.g. TorinoFilmLab, Midpoint, etc.).
- Participation in a pitch training session is mandatory. This will take place on June 8, 2027, and will be preceded by an individual online training.
- If your project is selected, it will be included in the DIGITAL STORY EXCHANGE. For this purpose, we will publish selected information provided in your submission: title, genre, logline, synopsis, creator’s statement, and the names and contact details of the project representatives. By submitting your project, you agree that this information may be published in this context if your project is selected.
- The project must be submitted and presented in English.
Please submit your project with the following Information:
- Series Bible (including logline, synopsis, season one story arc, pilot treatment, character descriptions, visual materials, and producers’ note / authors’ note) with a total length of 8–12 pages. Anything exceeding this length will not be considered.
- One fully written scene, including a sample of dialogue, or (optionally) the pilot script.
- Optional: Mood trailer / teaser / proof of concept.
- All materials must be submitted in English, as only English-language submissions can be evaluated. If audiovisual material is not originally in English or dubbed in English, it must be submitted with burned-in English subtitles.
FAQ
SUBMISSION:
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO ENTER?
Authors / Creators / Producers who are the authors and/or owners of the intellectual property being presented. Projects that adapt existing intellectual property rights will only be considered if it can be demonstrated that all rights have been clarified.
The presentation at the WRITERS’ VISION PITCH must be given by the author(s) and/or creator(s) of the project.
WHAT TYPES OF SERIES ARE ELIGIBLE TO ENTER?
Anything is possible! At WRITERS’ VISION PITCH, there are no creative limits. Whether it’s the next blockbuster series with a multi-million budget, a quirky high-concept comedy, an arthouse miniseries or a cross-genre, transmedia crime drama – we welcome diversity. We encourage you to be innovative and think outside the box.
CAN I SUBMIT MORE THAN ONE PROJECT?
Up to two projects may be submitted per production or distribution company, but only one project can be selected.
WHERE CAN I SUBMIT MY PROJECT?
We only consider projects submitted via our platform. Submissions sent by email will not be considered.
WHEN IS THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS?
Projects can be submitted until 18 January 2027.
IS THERE A FEE FOR SUBMITTING A PROJECT?
Yes, the submission fee is €25.
Selection of projects:
How does the selection process work?
Together with an independent jury of experts (to be announced shortly!), we review all projects, and our jury selects those that will be pitched live on stage and/or presented digitally.
By when will I be told whether my project has been selected for the live pitch?
We will let you know by 15 April 2027.
LIve-Pitch:
WHAT HAPPENS IF ONE OF MY PROJECTS IS SELECTED FOR THE PITCH?
On 9 June 2027, you will present your project live on stage in Cologne. In addition, some information about your project will be published in advance on the DIGITAL STORY EXCHANGE, accessible exclusively to accredited conference visitors.
IS THERE PITCH TRAINING?
Yes. A two-part pitch training session is compulsory for all selected projects. There is no cost to you for the pitch training.
HOW IS THE PITCH TRAINING STRUCTURED?
A few weeks before the Seriencamp Conference, you’ll have a one-to-one online session where you’ll present your concept for the first time and receive targeted feedback. This is designed to help you optimise your pitch deck and presentation in terms of both content and structure.
On 7 June 2027, a stage training session will take place. Here, you’ll receive professional coaching on presentation techniques and on enhancing your stage presence, so that you’re fully prepared.
IS THE PITCH TRAINING MANDATORY?
Yes! Both training modules are a mandatory part of the programme for all pitch participants.
HOW LONG CAN MY PITCH BE?
The pitch, including any video footage (if applicable), must not exceed 5 minutes!
IN WHICH LANGUAGE DO I NEED TO PITCH?
The project must be presented in English.
IS THERE A Q&A SESSION AFTER THE PITCH?
Yes, the jury will have the opportunity to ask you a question after your pitch.
DO I NEED AN ACCREDITATION?
Yes. If you have been selected for the WRITERS' VISION PITCH, you and up to one writing or producing partner will receive complimentary accreditation for the entire Seriencamp Conference.
If you have submitted a project but have unfortunately not been selected, you will still receive the Early Bird rate. Unfortunately, (partial) refunds are not possible. Therefore, please be sure to wait for the acceptance or rejection notifications.
Digital Story Exchange:
What is the Digital Story Exchange?
The DIGITAL STORY EXCHANGE is our digital project platform. It is accessible exclusively to accredited conference visitors. This gives projects visibility in the run-up to the event and allows you to make initial contacts. Interested industry professionals can contact you directly via the platform.
WHICH PROJECTS ARE PRESENTED AT THE DIGITAL STORY EXCHANGE?
All projects selected for the live pitch, as well as up to 20 further submissions, will be presented at the DIGITAL STORY EXCHANGE.
WHAT INFORMATION WILL BE PUBLISHED?
We will publish selected details about the project taken from your submission: title, genre, logline, synopsis, creator’s statement, and the names and contact details of the project leads. By submitting your entry, you agree that this information will be published in this context should your project be selected.
Confidential documents, such as the series bible, will of course remain protected and will not be made publicly available.