By Ingrid Coifman – photo by ABPI-TV ( Brazilian delegation )

The Banff World Media Festival 2011 brought together writers, producers, directors and buyers of television and digital media productions from around the globe. This year, in the land of Alberta’s Rockies, one of the most important international media events took place in mid-June at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, gathering thousands of industry players ready to pitch million-dollar ideas, hoping for a big hit in the small screen universe soon. Brazil was well represented there and grabbed the attention of international partners.

Showcasing television and new media content, competitions, a conference and workshops; the event, formerly known as the Banff World Media Festival, effectively boosts networking and business.

The Brazilian Independent TV Producers Association (ABPI-TV) represented the country with 11 delegates (photo) at this year’s event, including producers Big Jack Studios, Usina X2, Baboon Production, Lightbox Studios and Mosquito Video & Design. They coordinated the panel, Access to Brazil, profiling all the companies who attended Banff 2011 and various projects open to co-production.

According to Rachel do Valle, executive manager of the association, the event was an opportunity for some companies to participate for the very first time in the Festival and make important contacts abroad

In the past five years, BTVP has enabled 50 TV projects in partnership with 12 countries. The volume of deals has totalled over 70 million dollars and Brazilian productions were broadcasted in 118 countries