3rd edition of documentary film project IP Plan launches in Beijing
The second showcase of the "Image Possibilities" Coproduction Plan (IP Plan), along with the launch of its third edition, was held in Beijing on Jan. 15. More than 200 participants attended the event, including Chinese and international industry professionals, experts and scholars, representatives from relevant institutions, and journalists.
The second edition of the IP Plan is jointly organized by China International Communications Group (CICG), CCTV-9 Documentary Channel, and Discovery Channel. The initiative is dedicated to soliciting proposals and completed works in documentary films and short-form videos from creators worldwide.
Selected projects receive comprehensive support, including creative mentorship, production assistance, professional training, and international distribution and promotion. Since its launch in July 2024, the second edition of the IP Plan has attracted 7,180 proposals submitted by creators from around the globe. Following a rigorous evaluation process, 100 projects were ultimately selected for development and production.
Yu Yingfu, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), delivers remarks at an event for the "Image Possibilities" Coproduction Plan in Beijing, Jan. 15, 2026. [Photo/CICG]
Yu Yingfu, vice president of CICG, said that documentary storytelling serves as a powerful medium for cross-cultural understanding. He said that the IP Plan has strengthened international cultural exchange, leveraged the strengths of China-international co-productions, and cultivated storytellers capable of bridging China and the world. He noted that CICG has long been committed to promoting Chinese culture internationally and fostering dialogue among civilizations, and that the IP Plan will continue to bring creators together, facilitate exchange and collaboration, and support the production of emotionally resonant works that connect with audiences worldwide.
Liang Hong, director of the Film, Drama and Documentary Programming Center of China Media Group, delivers remarks at an event for the "Image Possibilities" Coproduction Plan in Beijing, Jan. 15, 2026. [Photo/CICG]
Liang Hong, director of the Film, Drama and Documentary Programming Center of China Media Group, remarked that documentaries enjoy unique advantages in international communication. Their strength lies in their ability to transcend language barriers and speak directly to audiences' emotions. As China's national flagship documentary platform, CCTV-9 will continue to promote international co-creation, and support high-quality productions that encourage cultural exchange and promote understanding of diverse human experiences. She said CCTV-9 will work closely with documentary professionals from around the world to tell China's stories and promote mutual learning among civilizations.
Andrew White, vice president of Warner Bros. Discovery, delivers remarks at an event for the "Image Possibilities" Coproduction Plan in Beijing, Jan. 15, 2026. [Photo/CICG]
Andrew White, vice president of Warner Bros. Discovery, said that what impressed him most about the first two editions of the IP Plan was the creators' confidence and their sincere approach to cross-cultural storytelling. He announced that the third edition will invite mentors from multiple countries and, for the first time, bring in local influencers to co-create content with Chinese creators. With a focus on "real people, a real China, and real connections," the new edition aims to help international audiences better understand China through vivid storytelling.
At the event, the third edition of the IP Plan was officially launched. Held under the theme "China's development, world opportunities," the edition introduces new special units focused on cultural exchange, regional cooperation, technological innovation, global stories of Chinese enterprises and humanitarian initiatives. It will also include international influencer tours in China and provide support for Chinese directors participating in global productions.