IATAS was co-founded by Ralph Baruch (1923–2016, President and Chief Executive of Viacom) and Ted Cott (1917–1973, NBC's General Manager), and was originally known as the International Council of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS).

[6] Founded in 1969, IATAS is an organization of leading media and entertainment figures from over 500 companies from 60 countries across all television sectors, including internet, mobile and technology.

The Television Festival screens the current year's International Emmy-nominated programs and features producers and directors who speak about their work.

The International Emmy Kids Awards were launched in 2013 and is held annually in February in New York City.

Other notable winners include Sir David Frost[citation needed] and Steven Spielberg.