About Our Festival

For over two decades, the Niagara Indie FilmFest has been at the forefront of showcasing emerging Canadian talent and fostering a vibrant independent film community.

Our Mission

The Niagara Indie FilmFest is a national artist-run competition created to showcase emerging Canadian short film and video works. We are committed to encouraging independent production and providing a forum where filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts can meet, interact, and celebrate the art of storytelling.

Created by and for film and video artists, our festival maintains its grassroots spirit while providing professional opportunities for emerging talent. We believe that every voice matters in shaping the future of Canadian cinema.

Excellence

Celebrating the highest quality in independent filmmaking

Community

Building connections between filmmakers and audiences

Innovation

Supporting experimental and boundary-pushing cinema

Passion

Driven by love for independent film and storytelling

Festival Community

Our Journey

2000

Festival Founded

First Niagara Indie FilmFest held in St. Catharines

2005

100+ Submissions

Reached milestone of over 100 film submissions

2010

National Recognition

Gained recognition as premier Canadian indie film festival

2015

Digital Transition

Fully transitioned to digital screening formats

2020

Virtual Adaptation

Successfully adapted to hybrid virtual/in-person format

2023

500+ Films Screened

Celebrated screening over 500 independent films

Meet Our Team

Sarah Mitchell
Festival Director
15+ years in independent film

Sarah has been championing independent Canadian cinema for over a decade, with extensive experience in film curation and festival management.

Expertise:

Film Curation
Festival Management
Industry Relations
Michael Chen
Programming Coordinator
Film industry veteran

Michael brings deep knowledge of emerging filmmaking trends and has worked with numerous film festivals across Canada.

Expertise:

Film Programming
Emerging Talent
Technical Standards
Emma Thompson
Community Outreach
Arts community advocate

Emma has been instrumental in building relationships with local artists, venues, and sponsors throughout the Niagara region.

Expertise:

Community Relations
Sponsor Development
Volunteer Coordination

Our Impact

500+
Films Screened

Independent films showcased since 2000

1000+
Filmmakers

Emerging artists supported and promoted

24
Years

Of continuous support for independent cinema

$50K+
Awards Given

In cash prizes to winning filmmakers

Our Home in St. Catharines

Located in the heart of the Niagara region, St. Catharines provides the perfect backdrop for our festival. The city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts community make it an ideal location for celebrating independent cinema.

Our partnership with local venues, businesses, and cultural organizations has been instrumental in creating a welcoming environment for filmmakers and audiences from across Canada and beyond.

Downtown St. Catharines, Ontario

Community Partners

Niagara Artist's Centre
St. Catharines Cultural Services
Local Film Community
Regional Arts Organizations