The World Congress of Science and Factual Producers (WCSFP) is a globally-recognized convening that brings together an interdisciplinary community of storytellers, scientists, broadcasters, and thought leaders committed to transforming how complex ideas reach mass audiences. The Congress operates at the confluence of science communication and mass media production, with a membership representing over 40 countries and major players across platforms — from Netflix and PBS to gaming companies, independent podcasters and the scientists whose research these companies learn about to find new content. The 2025 edition, to be held in Rio de Janeiro, provides a compelling moment for global discourse, taking place just after COP30 and positioned to amplify content related to resilience, pluralism and interdependence.

This funding aims  to support an initiative within the 2025 WCSFP to give Templeton World Charity Foundation (TWCF) grantees and stakeholders a visible, credible platform inside this specialized conference gathering with senior factual content decision-makers across film, television, digital, audio, and live formats—and also share TWCF’s focus on curiosity, character, and human flourishing to this highly targeted audience.

The funding supports two complementary activities led by Adam Kirkham Director of Partnerships at WCSFP. First, the Ideas Salon — WCSFP’s curated, small-room forum that fosters direct exchange between scientists and specialist producers — will reserve places for up to five TWCF grantees (in one session or split across two), with emphasis on Brazil-anchored themes and collaborations. Second, mainstage session participation: a Templeton-aligned, approximately 45-minute case-study session co-produced with WCSFP’s editorial team is expected to integrate Ben Arthur’s SongWriter (~30 minutes for SongWriter format, with remainder for opening remarks and Q&A framed for WCSFP attendees) and is expected to include a TWCF representative, plus a scientist, storyteller/author, and musician from Brazil or the wider LATAM region.