AMERICAN CONSERVATION FILM FESTIVAL INC

MISSION
The American Conservation Film Festival presents conservation-focused films and programs that engage, inform, and inspire.

GOALS
I. Curate and present contemporary films on conservation issues.
II. Support emerging filmmakers and new film projects.
III. Provide educational, interactive opportunities for filmmakers, audience members, and youth.
IV. Partner with organizations, businesses, and individuals to share information and strengthen resources.

1. Select between 30-50 films annually that resonate with the public, are unique, contemporary, diverse and highlight global and local conservation issues.
2. Present professional, accessible, engaging film screening events - whether virtual or in-person.
3. Increase financial support and networking opportunities for filmmakers and conservation experts and expand educational opportunities.
4. Help promote filmmakers and their projects.
5. Present a workshop for emerging and seasoned filmmakers that employs the talent and experience of leaders in the conservation filmmaking industry.
6. Develop and recruit programming opportunities related to film topics, regional environmental issues, and conservation in general to give audience members a more comprehensive, action-inspiring experience.
7. Present informative, inspiring conservation films targeted to children and offer programming that provides hands-on, active engagement.
8. Invite local, regional, and national conservation organizations to participate in the festival and other events throughout the year.
9. Cross-promote events and efforts of partner organizations.
10. Expand the audience through targeted promotion, free or low cost screenings, and presentations to citizen groups.

ACFF is an established and trusted "brand" in the conservation filmmaking community, known for its integrity, inclusion, responsiveness, and professionalism. Hundreds of filmmakers have participated in the festival and/or had their films presented. Dozens have participated in the Conservation Filmmaker Workshop. And many have been awarded cash prizes to continue or begin work on conservation film projects.

ACFF enjoys a loyal following of audience members and fans in the West Virginia-Maryland-Virginia tri-state region and that audience grows each year as we expand our outreach and events in different locations.

ACFF is fortunate to partner with many conservation and arts organizations as well as academic institutions.

ACFF has a dedicated and skilled staff - small but mighty!

ACFF has national, regional, and local sponsors, including private foundations and businesses.

ACFF has a loyal cadre of passionate and talented volunteers.

Since its inception, ACFF has presented over 600 films in multiple venues in the tri-state area; welcomed over 10,000 audience members to the festival and special events; recruited dozens of filmmakers and conservation experts to share their experience and knowledge; supported over 25 student filmmakers through cash awards, travel and lodging stipends, and workshop tuition; formed partnerships with multiple community, environmental, and arts organizations; engaged youth with family films, contests, and interactive programs, and; provided instruction to nearly 200 emerging and seasoned filmmakers.

As we were all challenged by the global pandemic in 2020, we are working hard to creatively and innovatively adapt to the ever-changing festival "landscape." This will likely mean more "virtual" events which can have a greater reach but will also require us to come up with positive ways to connect people, grow networks, and offer opportunities for continued learning and sharing. We also wish to explore ways to further support conservation filmmakers in their critical work. We remain dedicated to supporting student filmmakers and providing them with opportunities for education, peer networking, and mentorship.