Submit to NFFTY!
Official Rules & Guidelines | Frequently Asked Questions
NFFTY submissions closed on February 10. Stay connected with NFFTY on social or through enews to learn about future submission openings and program offerings.
“I was 17 when I first attended NFFTY. Since then, I have been able to be inspired by the films every year and build an extensive network of young filmmakers, who push each other to be better. NFFTY empowers youth and connects artists from all around the globe. It allowed me to understand that I am the future and that my films matter.”
What is NFFTY?
NFFTY is the world’s largest, most influential film festival for emerging filmmakers 24 years old and younger. In 2023, we screened over 200 amazing short films representing 32 US states and 28 countries. We provide a first-class festival experience that includes four days of film screenings, parties, networking events, panels, and more!
Why Submit to NFFTY?
Inspiration & Motivation
Year after year, filmmakers tell us how much they were inspired by the work they saw at NFFTY, and how having their work included in the festival gave them the confidence they needed to keep creating, keep submitting their work to other festivals, and to keep moving forward in their filmmaking journey!
Creative Community
When you attend NFFTY as a filmmaker, you meet fellow young filmmakers from around the world, and network with industry leaders. You build personal and professional relationships that will last long after your festival years!
Launch Your Professional Career
Thousands of filmmakers have come through NFFTY over the past 16 years, and the festival has been a launching pad to celebrated festival runs, sought-after distribution deals, and successful careers in the film industry. Check out our Alumni Advisory Board and our Alumni Spotlight to see just a few examples of NFFTY filmmakers who are killing it professionally!
“This festival has been one of the most motivational and humbling experiences of my life so far. If you’re serious about you having a career in this industry, you should to be serious about NFFTY.”
Submission Deadlines & Entry Fees
Submissions to NFFTY are currently open:
Early Deadline: $30 | November 30, 2023
Mid Deadline: $40 | December 21, 2023
Regular Deadline: $50 | January 11, 2024
Final Deadline: $60 | February 2, 2024
Final Deadline: $70 | February 10, 2024
Note: 10% discount available to FilmFreeway Gold members
Categories
All films (national and international) may be submitted into only one category:
NARRATIVE
DOCUMENTARY
MUSIC VIDEO
ANIMATION
EXPERIMENTAL
EPISODIC
You must read the Official Rules & FAQs before submitting!
“I would like to thank everyone at NFFTY for hosting a festival experience that included inspiration, mentorship, and pride. I was able to gain confidence in my ability as a storyteller through my experience at NFFTY.”