BIPOC PoP brings together creatives, scholars, and industry leaders from comics, gaming, animation, and multimedia arts for a three-day event focused on strengthening community through the sharing of cutting-edge creative critical knowledge in the visual storytelling arts.

The BIPOC PoP Animation Festival is the event's film component, seeking animated shorts from established and emerging BIPOC creatives.

Best of Fest

Best Director

Special Jury Prize

This is an official call for submissions to the BIPOC PoP Animation Festival, taking place in person at the UT Austin campus, from March 5-7, 2026. We are seeking innovative, original projects created by BIPOC creatives. All films submitted for consideration must be new and not previously featured on television or in theaters.

(a) All entries will be pre-screened for eligibility by a selection committee, but not all eligible entries will be scheduled.

(b) Entrants are responsible for obtaining all necessary licenses, royalties, release forms, clearances, and permits required to present their work. BIPOC PoP is not liable for any claims involving copyright, trademark, credits, or royalty infringement related to the work.

(c) Films can be in any language, but the plot must be BIPOC-themed, and at least one principal filmmaker (producer, writer, or director) must be of BIPOC origin. Only completed films will be accepted; no incomplete or in-progress works will be considered.

(d) Submissions will only be accepted through FilmFreeway. No late submissions will be considered after the deadline.

(e) Filmmakers are not required to attend the festival for their work to be accepted. If your film is selected, you will be notified via email with instructions for submitting press materials and exhibition copies. We will also provide registration details if you wish to attend your film's screening.

(f) BIPOC PoP does not reimburse any fees associated with the submission process. The festival reserves the right to disqualify a submission, without refund, for any reason, including a change in a film's eligibility status after submission.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • I am honoured that my film was selected! The team was great at communicating and hope they can this Festival running many years to come.

    April 2026
  • BIPOC PoP is a very important festival regarding visibility for people of colour and celebrate our talents. My film, Sphere Supreme, got honourable mention in the festival and I am so glad to be part of this experience!! Thank you for having me in the festival. Was precious!!

    March 2025
  • Sergio SPAGNOL

    This festival is wonderful and I was very happy with my film's participation. Great.

    April 2024
  • Fantastic Festival with excellent programming! My film Bride's Dream was screened this year! Thank you very much!

    March 2024