The Edmonton Short Film Festival (ESFF) began as a grassroots festival in 2012 with the goal of promoting our local film community and since then we’ve expanded with an international and virtual reach. ESFF seeks to encourage and elevate independent film, with a special emphasis on showcasing Alberta filmmakers. 

Why are we crowdfunding?

We have been offering free community screening events for over five years. These events provide the opportunity for the community to come alongside under-represented filmmakers and films that focus on Black, Indigenous, Female, LGBT and other filmmakers in our community. AND we pay for every film screened. These screenings are kept accessible by being offered in unexpected and interesting venues, all free to the public. Because these films and events are outside of our annual festival activities, they are unfunded and can only continue through the support of the community.

We also offer workshops for aspiring to professional filmmakers and content creators at no cost. While we appreciate the support we have received in the past, for the last three years it has become harder and harder to generate community support. We know these free workshops are greatly appreciated by those attending. Comments from past participants include:

• "I have a much better understanding about the necessity of planning, and the importance of every step in the filmmaking process"
• "I now understand the importance of composition and the rule of thirds"
• "Thank you for giving me the confidence to give filmmaking a try, even without many resources!"

So we are turning to you, our friends and fans, for help!

Our events and workshops have emphasized hands-on, interactive entertainment. Our virtual events have increased accessibility, and further developing our online impact is a big part of the ESFF’s future.

We recognize the power of film to bring people together and to foster an inclusive sense of community. We intentionally organize and participate in events that acknowledge and uplift diverse stories and voices.

TODAY, WE OFFER YEAR-ROUND WORKSHOPS, EVENTS, AND SCREENINGS THAT REACH FILMMAKERS AND AN AUDIENCE FROM EDMONTON AND BEYOND! 

With your support we will be able to continue offering these wonderful free events! And the Government of Alberta will MATCH your donation, so your gift of $100 = $200!