Recommendations and some answers to Frequently Asked Questions.
Who is behind Media Party?
Media Party was born in Buenos Aires in 2012, as an event created by Hacks/Hackers Buenos Aires and it’s been on the ground for 10 editions now. Media Party Chicago is proudly hosted by Hacks/Hackers, with the support from Knight Foundation, Google News Initiative, International Center For Journalists, Knight Lab from Northwestern University and NewsPack, Media Party Chicago 2023 is set to redefine the media landscape. Ally organizations such as News Product Alliance, Open News, Creative Commons, Chi Hack Night, and Content Authenticity Initiative all contribute to this dynamic event.
How do I access Media Party?
You need to register through mediaparty.org, using Eventbrite. It has a cost of $ 49, and some scholarships available through our network of partners.
Where is Media Party Chicago going to happen?
Media Party Chicago is hosted at Polsky Exchange Center, in Hyde Park, a place that belongs to Chicago University. It allows 300 attendees, and we’re reaching this number, so run to register before we get into the waiting list.
Do you require ID?
At the entrance, you must show your Eventbrite Ticket. Eventually we might require your ID. You can register at any time during the event, although we recommend doing so as soon as possible. Each day, as soon as the event starts, we will be raffling some T-shirts among those present.
Do I need to register in advance for the Media Party workshops?
No, you do not need to register in advance for the workshops. They are in-person, and the capacity is related to the size of the rooms.
Will I receive a certificate of attendance?
You can use Eventbrite tickets as proof of attendance.
Do I need to bring my own computer?
If you want to participate in the workshops and hacking space, it is necessary to bring your own notebook and charger. Even if it is not mandatory, we recommend you to bring your notebook. If you are only interested in the talks (keynotes in the morning or the lightning talks in the afternoon) you do not need to bring anything. Also, there are mentorship sessions and design thinking workshops that do not need notebooks to participate.
Will there be workspace available?
There are some shared spaces where you can stay, like the lounge area, but Polsky Exchange Center has limited space.
Do you lend computers?
No, we do not lend computers. We also do not lend adapters or chargers, although there will be electrical outlets available for charging batteries and Wi-Fi for you to participate in workshops and stay active on social media.
I represent a media outlet and want to cover the event. Do I need to get accredited?
If you register through the Media Party website, you don’t need to do anything else. If you want to cover and write articles without coordinating it in advance, you can do so during the Media Feria, on Thursday, June 8, between 12 pm and 1 pm. It will not be allowed to interrupt ongoing activities for interviews. Instead of conducting interviews, come and learn! If you want a Press pass, pleas write us to production@mediaparty.org
Will there be a livestream?
No, there will not be a livestream. Media Party ensures audiovisual coverage of the event, but this year the production team decided to strengthen the presence of activities at the venue. The best thing you can do is to attend in person! What happens at Media Party stays at Media Party.
I’m a programmer, designer, entrepreneur in the startup world, marketer, economist, etc. Why should I participate in a journalism event?
Media Party is not just a gathering for journalists. It is a gathering for the convergence of media, digital technologies, and innovation. We expect entrepreneurs, developers, system administrators, architects, analysts, data miners, designers, civil society activists, entrepreneurs, disciplinary specialists such as sociologists, political scientists, etc., to participate.
How will the Hackathon work? What will be the dynamic?
In the days leading up to the event, all those interested in participating can submit their ideas and projects to the hackdash of mediaparty.info. After two days of Media Party with talks and workshops, the event will culminate in a collaborative work marathon. On Saturday, June 10, those projects that want to present their ideas and projects must be present at Polsky Exchange Center at 10 am. They will have three minutes to present their projects. During the first hour, projects and ideas to be developed will be heard. After the first hour, teams will be formed to work on the projects. From 3 pm, the chosen projects will be pitched. An independent jury will make the final decision, which will be announced before 6 pm. There will be three winners, that will get special attention from our partners (Knight Foundation, ICFJ, Knight Lab, Partnership On AI, Content Authenticity Initiative, Google News Initiative, among others)
Can the schedule change?
Everything can change. The official schedule is available on mediaparty.org, in the Agenda section. Last-minute talks, workshops, spontaneous workshops, projects in the hacking space, etc., can also be added.
Parking slots?
There are several parking slots available, mainly around the Metra station. One or two blocks from the Venue.
What about night Partys?
Media Party recommend focal points for everynight that are open to the registerd attenddes and scheduled at the conference website. We do not guarantee free food neither drinks but a lot of fun.
Last but not least, why Chicago?
We’ve heard this question a lot, so it deserves to be considered as a FAQ. Media Party Buenos Aires has made a lot of long term relationships with the City of Chicago over the years. The presence of Knight Lab at Northwestern University is one of the main reasons. Is strategically located to bring people from both costs coming from the US. In the long term, the idea is to keep people from media, tech and entrepreneurship audiences out of their comfort zone and invite them to attend. Also, Chicago has a vibrant community of independent media and civic tech organizations.
More questions?
Email production@hackshackers.com
Hashtag #MediaParty
