Introduction to Cannes Lions 2024
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, a beacon of inspiration and innovation in the creative world, is set to launch its 71st edition. Scheduled for 17–21 June 2024 in the picturesque Cannes, France, the festival promises a host of new initiatives and pass types, tailoring an inclusive experience for attendees from diverse backgrounds.
Inclusive Initiatives for Broader Participation
In a groundbreaking move, Cannes Lions 2024 is focusing on supporting underrepresented and underserved communities. Organizations, particularly registered charities, not-for-profits, and diverse-owned entities, can apply for complimentary passes, with a total of €1 million worth allocated. Frank Starling, Chief DEI Officer at LIONS, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This is about driving equity and increasing accessibility so that everyone in the global creative community has the opportunity to attend and benefit from the progress-driving possibilities that Cannes Lions brings on both a personal and business level.” Applications for these passes open in December.
Diverse Pass Options for Varied Needs
Further enhancing accessibility, the festival introduces new pass options like the Start-Up Pass and Connector Pass. The Start-Up Pass aims to empower smaller businesses and individuals, while the Connector Pass focuses on networking opportunities. Simon Cook, CEO of LIONS, stated: “We’re constantly evolving the Cannes Lions offer to meet the changing needs of our diverse audience. We’re committed to providing greater access to Cannes Lions, and addressing the different needs and circumstances of our global community.”
Open Call for Content and Speaker Applications
The festival has also commenced its annual Call for Content, inviting proposals from talents worldwide until 5 January 2024. Jenni Middleton, Editor in Chief & SVP Content at LIONS, highlighted the importance of diversity in creative voices: “Creativity can come from anywhere. Our open call for content ensures that we provide a global platform and that’s why we want our platforms to be open to as many voices as possible to come in.”
Also read: Garmin Health Summit 2023: Celebrating Innovation in Digital Health and Wellness
Focusing on Creativity and Impact
The 2024 festival will continue to prioritize creativity, with the final day dedicated to showcasing outstanding work. Building on the success of the ‘Creative Impact’ stream from the previous festival, next year’s agenda will further explore the business case for creativity.
Supporting Future Talents through Scholarships
The LIONS Scholarship continues, offering fully funded places in the Cannes Lions Brand Marketers and Creative Academies to 10 young talents. Kateryna Kononenko, a 2023 scholarship recipient, described the program as “It’s intense. It’s emotional. It’s unimaginably insightful and inspiring.”
Empowering Women in Creative Leadership
2024 marks the 10th cohort of the See It Be It program, aiming for equal gender representation in creative leadership. The program has already advanced the careers of 124 women, with applications open until 8 January 2024.
New Award Categories and Updates
The festival announces the introduction of the Luxury & Lifestyle Lions, recognizing the evolution of creative marketing in the luxury sector. Meanwhile, the Mobile Lions will be retired. Submissions for the Cannes Lions Awards open on 18 January 2024.
For more details on the 2024 Festival passes, See It Be It, and the LIONS Scholarship, visit www.canneslions.com.
