Cannes Lions 2024 announces exciting changes and opportunities
By Anietie Udoh
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is gearing up for its 71st edition, scheduled to take place from June 17 to 21, 2024, in the picturesque Cannes, France. The upcoming festival promises a slew of innovations, including a range of initiatives and pass options aimed at fostering inclusivity and accessibility for all.
One of the standout initiatives is the allocation of €1 million worth of complimentary passes, specifically targeting underrepresented and underserved communities. Organizations, with a focus on registered charities, not-for-profits, and diverse-owned entities, will have the opportunity to apply for these passes. The allocation will be determined through an eligibility scoring system, and Frank Starling, Chief DEI Officer at LIONS, emphasized, “This is about driving equity and increasing accessibility so that everyone in the global creative community has the opportunity to attend.”
Applications for these complimentary passes will open in December, creating an avenue for a more diverse representation at the Festival. The move aligns with the festival’s commitment to broadening access and fostering a more inclusive creative community.
In addition to these complimentary passes, the festival is introducing new pass options for 2024. The Start-Up Pass is tailored for smaller businesses and individuals, providing them with an entry point to the Festival. Another addition is the Connector Pass, designed for those prioritizing networking opportunities. Simon Cook, CEO at LIONS, stated, “We’re committed to providing greater access to Cannes Lions, and addressing the different needs and circumstances of our global community.”
Cannes Lions has also thrown open its annual Call for Content, encouraging proposals from individuals worldwide. Submissions will be accepted until January 5, 2024, as the festival seeks to embrace creativity from diverse sources. Jenni Middleton, Editor in Chief & SVP Content at LIONS, highlighted the importance of a global platform, stating, “Creativity can come from anywhere.”
Building on the success of the 2023 Festival, where ‘Creative Impact’ emerged as the most highly rated content stream, the 2024 agenda will continue to focus on creativity’s business impact. The goal is to equip the global community with the tools and evidence necessary to connect creative and marketing departments to the boardroom.
The LIONS Scholarship, designed to support the next generation of talent, will also continue in 2024. Ten young people from around the world will receive a fully funded place on the Cannes Lions Brand Marketers and Creative Academies, held during the Festival.
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