National Association of Television Program Executives

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.

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History

Origins (1963–1964)

Following the introduction of the United States Federal Communications Commission’s Prime Time Access Rule—which shifted responsibility for the 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 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 foster stronger connections between the television industry, academia, and students, NATPE created the NATPE Educational Foundation in 1978. This foundation aims to prepare future television professionals through practical internships, workshops for educators, and academic awards. The foundation currently manages fellowships, grants, and prizes recognizing excellence in television studies.

Rebranding and Digital Expansion (2010)

In 2010, the organization rebranded as NATPE Content First to signal its expanded focus on emerging media platforms and digital technology. The rebranding aimed to attract digital content creators, tech exhibitors, and new media professionals, while retaining its core television membership.

International Partnerships (2019)

NATPE formed a partnership with the China International Television Corporation (CITVC), a subsidiary of China Central Television (CCTV), in July 2019. This collaboration was designed to promote content exchange and co-production ventures 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 expressed optimism that it would emerge from the reorganization process without losing its operational standing. Despite plans to proceed with its annual conference scheduled for January 2023 in the Bahamas, the event was ultimately canceled 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.^[1]