Call for conference proposals: ACCES 2020

ACCES is held in a different African country each year, bringing together influential music industry players from across the globe to exchange ideas, discover new talent and accelerate the shaping of a vibrant music sector on the continent. Launched in Dakar in 2017 and held in Nairobi in 2018 and Accra in 2019, ACCES has grown to be one of the leading events of its kind on the continent.

The event’s programme typically includes training workshops, panel discussions, keynotes, live performances, networking sessions, exhibitions and visits to key music industry hubs in the host city.

We seek proposals from music industry experts who are willing to share their vision and knowledge with a diverse audience on relevant topics related to the music sector on the continent and internationally.

The application deadline is 29 May 2020 (midnight CAT).

Format and content 

Each presentation:

• Can involve one or two speakers and is limited to 45 minutes, including a 15-minute exchange with the audience.
• Is presented in English.
• Should offer hands-on knowledge, solid information and an innovative approach.

Presentations should:

• Be cutting-edge and worth sharing with a local, African and international audience.
• Focus on a specific issue or aspect of the industry rather than general, broad-ranging matters.
• Aim to suggest solutions to the targeted issues.  
• Be dynamic and skilfully presented.

Compelling topics could be new technologies that are changing the music business, new and disruptive solutions, mobility etc. Presentations that integrate unique interactive elements or performances are most welcome.

See the ACCES 2018 and ACCES 2019 programmes to get a better idea of the conference and its topics.

Benefits

ACCES will provide the successful speaker(s) with:

• A free full-access pass for the duration of the event, including WiFi.  
• A dedicated time slot in the official programme.
• Necessary equipment (PA and presentation screen).
• Promotional benefits, including profile and logo on the printed programme and on the website, newsletter visibility (+40K people), access to online delegate database and a dedicated 'meet the speakers' networking session.
• Accommodation for the duration of the event.
• Airport transfers and local transport from/to hotel and venue.

Please note:

• ACCES does not cover air travel costs. Speakers based outside Dar es Salaam should be prepared to provide own funding for transport costs to and from the city. 
• Applicants should be prepared to be available for the duration of ACCES and to present on any of the dates (26 to 28 November 2020).

How to apply

1. Read this call carefully.
2. Create a profile on the Music in Africa Artist & Industry section (optional).

Use this link: https://www.musicinafrica.net/user/register and make sure that your profile is up to date, as this is the profile that the selection committee will review.

Please note: You may find your profile already created by a Music in Africa contributor. In this case, you would need to follow the online steps to claim it. Once you have control of your profile, make sure to update the information.

1. Complete and submit the online application form and include the following information: 

• An updated biography highlighting your expertise in the topic of your presentation.
• A summary of your presentation.
• Two high-resolution promotional photos (300 dpi, one landscape and one portrait, and related credits).

Please note:

• The form will not allow applicants to save and complete later. Before you complete it, make sure you have all the requirements.
• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Only applications submitted via the dedicated online form will be considered. Email applications will not be considered.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Successful candidates selected by the programme team will be notified by 30 June 2020. Candidates who haven’t heard from the ACCES team by 30 June 2020 should consider their application unsuccessful.

Application forms

Access the ENGLISH application form here.

For enquiries and information, email claire@musicinafrica.net.

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COVID-19 UPDATE

Following our ACCES 2020 announcement, and in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we would like to assure our community that we are closely monitoring and assessing developments with a view to make an informed decision.

ACCES remains scheduled for 26-28 November 2020. The overriding priority for the Music In Africa Foundation is the safety and security of our broader music community and everyone involved in staging this high-profile event.

We are hopeful that “the show will go on” and encourage you to continue to register for the conference, and apply for showcases and conference proposals. We will continue to communicate transparently with all stakeholders, and event partners as the situation develops.
 
Please follow our online platforms for further updates: https://www.musicinafrica.net/acces