Established in 1997, the Black Women Film Network (BWFN) was founded to prepare black women to enter the film and television industries. The organization seeks to preserve the voice of these women through film and educational programs that empower and inform. A 501(c)3 non-profit, BWFN provides student scholarships, hosts screenings and workshops, and honors individuals who have excelled in this difficult industry.

Awards & Prizes

* Audience Award
* Best Actor
* Best Director
* Best Screenplay
* Best Cinematography
* Best Editing
* Best in Festival

Rules & Terms


All submissions must be received no later than the given deadlines. **Submitted short must be produced, directed by or featuring a Black woman in a leading role.** When uploading your film, please submit the film poster as well. Selected participants will be notified by BWFN staff three weeks prior to the festival. Filmmakers are allowed to submit more then one film, however each film will require a separate entry fee. Films cannot exceed 20 minutes running time. Non-English films must have subtitles.

FEES
Regular Deadline: $25.00
Late Deadline: $35.00
6 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Raven Carter

    it was an incredible time!

    April 2024
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  • Funke Alafiatayo

    Thank you BWFN for including my short film 'Everything's Fine' as part of the 2022 festival alongside other amazing films - truly honoured! Excellent communication throughout. Highly recommend!

    February 2023
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  • kanithea powell

    Thank you Black Women Film Network for having us at your festival. It was great being apart of your festival and getting the opportunity to share our film Humanity with your community. Thank you for your hospitality and kindness!

    February 2022
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  • Sallomé Hralima

    The 25th anniversary short film festival was beautiful. Not only is our team proud to have been chosen Best in Festival and Best Screenplay, but it was a privilege to have our project But Tomorrow screen next to films we loved, and on a Black-owned streaming platform too! We look forward to watching all of the projects find wings and fly! Thank you to the team that put this year's festival together. And special shout out to Mercendez who held our hand through the process. We are forever in your debt.

    February 2022
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  • Tony Fair

    2020 BWFN was an amazing festival and experience. Their staff and communication was responsive, organized, helpful and just "on it." They support Black filmmakers and curate at a high level. In 2020 they put together a high-quality virtual experience and maximized their social channels with live interviews and promotions. Months after the festival, they stayed in touch with distribution and networking opportunities. I highly recommend this festival and would not miss submitting my next film.

    March 2021
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