Ventana Sur will introduce Club del Mate at its 2026 edition, a new industry section aimed at strengthening co-production ties among Ibero-American producers and expanding their connections with the international market. Inspired by the Marché du Film’s Producers Network at Cannes, the initiative will debut from November 30 to December 4 in Montevideo, Uruguay.

The programme will bring together producers from across Ibero-America for a series of professional meetings and networking activities designed to foster new partnerships and international co-productions. It is aimed at mid-career and established professionals with at least three released projects, including one within the past three years.

Applicants will be selected based on their production credits, with particular emphasis on geographical diversity and representation from different sectors of the Ibero-American audiovisual industry. Applications will remain open until November 15 or until all available places have been filled.

Club del Mate expands the collaboration between Ventana Sur and the Marché du Film, which jointly organise the market alongside Argentina’s National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts (INCAA) and Uruguay’s Film and Audiovisual Agency (ACAU).

“As a key meeting point between the Latin American audiovisual industry and the international market, Ventana Sur is a natural partner for this initiative. Together, we want to create new opportunities for Ibero-American producers to connect with their international counterparts and build lasting partnerships,” said Guillaume Esmiol, executive director of the Marché du Film.

The initiative takes its name from the Río de la Plata tradition of sharing mate, a practice associated with informal gatherings, conversation and socialising. Gisella Previtali, president of ACAU, highlighted the cultural significance of the choice: “Mate is much more than a tradition in the Río de la Plata; it is a symbol of our culture, hospitality and the value of sharing. It brings people together, opens conversations and creates connections.”