Open call: ACCES 2024 content proposals

This is a great opportunity for any individual or business wanting to contribute to the shaping of the vibrant African music ecosystem, while also receiving unapparelled visibility and access to a wider audience in Africa and abroad.

Taking place in Kigali, Rwanda on 14, 15 and 16 November, the seventh edition of ACCES will bring together industry professionals from across the African and global music markets to connect, showcase their work and discover emerging and established talent from the continent. With hundreds of active creatives as well as music industry professionals and businesses from more than 40 countries, ACCES offers an exciting programme that includes industry talks, music performances, pitch and networking sessions, workshops, exhibitions and awards ceremonies.

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 31 July 2024 (midnight CAT).

Format

Content may be presented in any of the following two formats:

1. Keynote presentation (where a strong expert is identified to present a relevant music topic). Keynotes run for 40 minutes (including a 10 minute Q&A with the audience).
2. Panel discussion (a structured conversation on a relevant topic, involving up to five experts including a moderator). Panel discussions run for 55 minutes (including a 15 minute Q&A with audiences).

Content 

Proposals must be aligned with the following guidelines:

• Be presented in English or French.
• Offer hands-on knowledge, solid information and an innovative approach.
• 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 professionally presented.
• Presentations that are purely based on promoting or selling products or initiatives will not be accepted.
• Sessions that combine unique interactive or performance elements are most welcome.

Topics

We are open to any relevant and compelling ideas but we also want to encourage relevant and topical ideas in areas that are current and meaningful to a largely pan-African audience.

For ideas, please see the previous ACCES programme.

Benefits

ACCES will provide the successful applicants with:

• Waived fee for the session ($5 000). This means you do not pay a placement fee. 
• A dedicated speaking slot in the official programme. 
• Mobilisation of audiences to the session.
• Professional recording of the session (videography).
• Professional photos of the session.
• Live streaming of the session to a wider audience.
• Branding on stage (digital and only during the session).
• Equipment (PA and presentation screen).
• Promotional benefits, including profile and logo on the printed programme and website, newsletter visibility (+45K people), and access to online delegate database.
• The session will be promoted as ‘presented by’ the successful applicant.
• A free full access pass for the duration of the event.
• Airport transfers and local transport from/to hotel and venue.
• Discounted rates at partner hotels.
• General logistics support from ACCES.

Responsibilities of the successful partner will include:

• Coordinating all content aspects including securing and communicating with all proposed presenters.
• Preparing and delivering the approved session.
• Applicants should be prepared to be available for the duration of ACCES and to present on any of the dates (14 and 15 November 2024).
• Attend at least three preparation meetings with the ACCES team.
• Cover travel costs (flight and accommodation costs).

How to apply

1. Read this open call carefully.
2. Complete and submit the application form, in English or in French, including the following information:

• A short biography/profile highlighting your expertise in the proposed topic.
• A summary of your session.
• Two high-resolution promotional photos 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.

Selection process

• 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.

Application form

Access the application form HERE.

All applicants will be notified by 15 August 2024.

For enquiries and information, email Ms Claire Metais at claire@musicinafrica.net or visit the ACCES official website.

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