A look back on 2021 as we look toward full launch
2022 started with rigorous efforts to leverage our learnings from our first cohort of users that came on board last September as well as from running the Manitoba Showcase in October and November 2021.
Building Momentum
2021 was all about generating early momentum. We launched this marketing website, held information sessions that reached hundreds of people in the live arts sector, and we kept our public funders updated. We appreciated opportunities to present The Pitch concept at the online Pacific Contact in April 2021, as well as the Digital Arts Nation online conference and Yukon Innovation Week in November 2021. All of these efforts paid off in confirming that our aspirations and initial concepts resonated and, indeed, generated excitement.
We received a huge vote of confidence from Manitoba Arts Network, when they decided to become a pilot partner and host the very first showcase online using The Pitch. This partnership allowed us to iron out some kinks and bugs immediately. Ultimately, we delivered a well-received experience to MAN’s Manitoba Showcase participants as well as the showcasing artists. Of course, these pitches remain on The Pitch where artists can continue to evolve them or add new performance videos or bio updates.
Initial Pilot Cohort
The first pilot cohort included 16 agents and their rosters, all artists that were showcased at Manitoba Showcase, plus another 30 independent artists. Many have been working on their profiles and pitches to ensure they put their best foot forward. We will encourage those who have not yet completed video uploads for their pitches to do so. Among presenting networks and presenting organizations interest is also high and onboarding will be open in March 2022.
We are also gratified that several arts organizations have begun to include the generation of video assets for use by artists on The Pitch in successful proposals to funders. They are usually using digital or recorded performance opportunities to generate the specific video assets that make up a great pitch. These partnerships are another profound vote of confidence for The Pitch.
Onboarding continuing in early 2022
Our tech team has been working on finalizing the core functionalities to ensure all users have a complete pitch and showcasing experience. We will get in touch with all members of our initial cohort in March to help them complete their profiles and offer guidance and perhaps editing support, as needed.
We also expect to issue an invitation to arts presenting organizations and venues to come on board and start to use The Pitch as they develop their programming for in person and digital shows.
Stay tuned for information sessions leading toward our next deadline for second beta pilot partners in a new intake with a deadline of April 30, 2022. This cohort will receive a 6 months free trial.
For More Information
Onboarding Support and Outreachservice@thepitch.ca