Sunny Side of the Doc has confirmed its return to La Rochelle on 22–24 June 2026, unveiling a streamlined three-day format and a new strategic partnership with #Documentary Campus# to strengthen the market’s role in the European and international documentary ecosystem.

The 2026 edition is the outcome of an intensive redesign process following an unprecedented mobilisation from the documentary community and support from partners and funders, including decisive backing from France’s CNC. The revised market structure is positioned as an optimised B2B environment that prioritises efficient business exchange while expanding the event’s capacity to address industry-wide transitions.

A central change is a reimagined pitching model. Instead of traditional on-stage presentations, Sunny Side of the Doc plans to introduce a round-table pitching format focused on direct, discussion-led encounters. The programme will also place emphasis on linear productions and digital-first strategies, alongside high-level talks and sessions addressing the future of documentary content, storytelling approaches, and evolving business models.

Documentary Campus’s 25-year track record in professional training, networking, and market development, including its involvement in the #SILBERSALZ Science & Media Festival and management of the World Congress of Science & Factual Producers. Sunny Side of the Doc reports hosting 2,100+ participants from 60 countries in recent editions, and is encouraging early travel and accommodation bookings for June 2026.