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BIFF’s Filmmakers Summit

2024 Filmmakers Summit Info Will Be Announced April 2024!

In 2012, with the support of a grant from The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, we founded our annual Filmmaker Summit. Now in its thirteenth year, the Summit is a prelude for filmmakers whose work will be screened at our three-day film festival. It is a collegial event in every way with more than 70 filmmakers in attendance each year learning from each other and from our outstanding group of industry mentors.

The Summit is a 2-day talent academy of diverse and multi-dimensional programming. Through panel discussions, lectures, special events, and breakout sessions, leading industry professionals guide in-depth discussions about the current trends in the entertainment industry. By giving filmmakers direct access to these professionals, the Summit expands their understanding of the industry and provides valuable insight into segments beyond their particular expertise: from development to distribution, insurance to financing, scheduling to marketing. There is a special emphasis on the influence of social media, new media and mobile platforms.

Over the past thirteen Summits, we have presented diverse and timely topics such as “Road Map to Documentary Filmmaking Success,” “What Does a Production Assistant Do?” and “Running a Multi-Faceted Entertainment Company.” Presenting industry professionals have included Sheila Nevins, of HBO Documentary Films; Dan and Josh Braun, co-founders of Submarine Entertainment; legendary film professor Peggy Rajski; and producer, writer, and director Darren Dean.

Explore our library of programs for complete lists of filmmakers and panelists.

2023

2022

2019

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2012