NATPE Budapest, the global TV market for Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), has unveiled that Andreas Briese, a top executive at Google-owned video platform YouTube in his role as country director for Germany and regional director for Central and Northern Europe, will deliver the opening keynote speaker for its 2025 edition next month.
”Briese will share actionable insights tailored to the CEE market, focusing on how creators and media companies can leverage YouTube to grow audiences and monetize content,” organizers said.
They also promised “high-impact conversations, fresh format strategies, and game-changing insights” from influential industry voices.
More than 85 exhibitors and more than 350 buyers have confirmed their attendance at NATPE Budapest, which has positioned itself as a platform for deal-making, exchange, and content discovery, as well as “a launchpad for the next wave of formats, scripted hits, and cross-border partnerships.”
One of the big-picture panels set for the event is entitled “View from the Top: Where do we go from here?” A description promises that it will see industry leaders sharing “how the industry needs to innovate – and collaborate – to navigate change and build a strong regional media ecosystem.”
The annual Format track will include a look at the next big hit formats and a session entitled “Cracking the code: Behind Talpa Studios‘ global hits, featuring the production powerhouse behind The Voice and Big Brother’s director of global distribution Sebastian van Barneveld.
A new offering will be “Format Futures,” described as “a case studies strand curated by Realscreen,” offering insights into “the art of transcreation and global scaling strategies.”
Mary Maddever, executive vp Realscreen and executive content director for NATPE, also unveiled that the event will be “bringing Realscreen’s 30 Minutes With format – more intimate briefings with buyers – to Budapest.”
Among other announced sessions are “How to make a splash on the global stage,” which will put a spotlight on “emerging formats securing international adaptation … from smaller but highly creative players,” and “Making it work (locally),” which looks at how, thanks to creative financing and production models along with cultural curation, “local versions of global franchises have the power to surpass the original by injecting buzz and meeting evolving audience needs.”
Also in Budapest, the inaugural NATPE Honors Europe will recognize “the bold voices and visionary leaders driving transformation across the European media landscape,” while the popular NATPE Boat Party will be part of the lineup of social events.
“We’re excited to offer a dynamic mix of programming and events designed to celebrate innovation, spotlight regional success, and foster meaningful industry connections,” said Claire Macdonald, NATPE’s executive director.
NATPE Budapest will take place in the Hungarian capital June 23-26.