National Association of Television Program Executives
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The National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE), now branded as Content First, is a professional organization representing television programming executives and content creators. Founded in 1964 in response to the Prime Time Access Rule, NATPE hosts annual conferences, provides educational grants and fellowships, and facilitates industry partnerships.
History
Origins (1963–1964)
Following the introduction of the United States Federal Communications Commission’s Prime Time Access Rule—which shifted responsibility for the 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. programming block from the major networks to local television stations—station program directors sought a dedicated forum to exchange best practices and address emerging challenges. In late 1963, at the encouragement of syndicated programming sales representatives, sixty-four program directors convened and selected Stan Cohen of WDSU (New Orleans) as temporary president to organize an inaugural meeting.
The first formal gathering of the National Association of Television Program Executives took place on May 15–16, 1964, at the New York Hilton Hotel. Seventy-one registrants, predominantly local station program directors, attended the two-day conference to discuss programming strategies and syndication opportunities.
Educational Foundation (1978)
To strengthen ties between the television industry, academia, and students, NATPE established the NATPE Educational Foundation in 1978. The Foundation’s mission is to equip future television professionals through hands-on internships, teacher workshops, and academic awards. It currently administers annual fellowships, grants, and prizes for outstanding contributions to television studies.
Rebranding and Digital Expansion (2010)
In 2010, the organization rebranded itself as NATPE Content First to reflect a broadened focus that included emerging media platforms and digital technology. The rebranding initiative sought to attract new media executives, technology exhibitors, and content creators alongside traditional television members. [citation needed]
International Partnerships (2019)
In July 2019, NATPE entered into a partnership with China International Television Corporation (CITVC), a subsidiary of China Central Television (CCTV). The collaboration aimed to facilitate content exchange and co-production opportunities between North American and Chinese media companies.
Bankruptcy and Conference Cancellation (2022–2023)
In October 2022, NATPE filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The organization stated it was “optimistic that [it] will emerge from the reorganization process in the same position.” Despite plans to proceed with its annual conference scheduled for January 2023 in the Bahamas, the event was ultimately cancelled amid ongoing financial restructuring.
Budapest
In 2011, NATPE acquired DISCOP EAST, which hosts an event covering the central and Eastern European media industry. The event is named NATPE Budapest.{{Cite news|title = NATPE Acquires DISCOP East|date = 2011-06-21|url = http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/470054-NATPE_Acquires_DISCOP_East.php}}
References
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External links
- {{Official website|https://www.natpe.com}}
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Category:Television organizations in the United States
Category:Professional associations based in the United States
Category:1963 establishments in the United States
Category:Organizations established in 1963
Category:Companies that filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2022