The Northeast Filmmakers Lab and Pitch Contest enters its 10th edition designed by and for filmmakers. Modeled after Rotterdam, our intimate setting is supportive, friendly and offers direct one-on-one access to industry experts, fundraising strategists, producers, entertainment attorneys, noted actors, casting directors, budgeting, marketing, social media specialists and more. If there's one word that describes us, its "relationship," if it's two words, then "break-through."

3 in 1: NEFL10 will host up to 12 Lab Fellows over 3 intensive days, using a hybrid model which wraps with a PITCH CONTEST open to all simply for applying. Our 10th edition will balance in-person one-on-one meetups, tour a motion picture studio in upstate NY and industry presentations.

Past film projects include The Neighborhood That Disappeared, Lee's 88 Keys, Tigress (Cannes '21), Benedict Arnold: Hero Betrayed, Sallie Mae Not, and The Dark Sky Under Harper's Rock.

As a hybrid event, we have two main goals: (1) help filmmakers complete their works and (2) help filmmakers reach a wide target audience.

The Northeast Filmmakers Lab prides itself on inclusion. NEFL10 is open to all stories in various stages of development, encouraging female directors, persons of color and projects designed to create social impact, awareness and inclusion, to apply.   We also encourage past participants to continue to utilize the lab for ongoing year round support.

All filmmakers who sign up to pitch will receive training on "How To Pitch."  One of the most informative courses you've ever taken on the process of pitching and worth applying to the lab. Lab Fellows will deepen their personal understanding of the art, craft and business of filmmaking.

NEFL10 returns to in-person events, however, much of the lab including project presentations, panel discussions and one-on-one industry consults will be virtual, via Zoom, thus, we encourage filmmakers from around the globe to apply.

Capital Cinema Cultural Exchange, Inc (CCCE), a not-for-profit, hosts the Northeast Filmmakers Lab 10th edition November 3-5 2023. We welcome SHORTS, DOCUMENTARIES, EPISODIC, ANIMATIONS and FEATURE FILMS among other projects in various stages of development to apply.

Awards & Prizes

PITCH COMPETITION - NEFL10 wraps with a virtual pitch competition on Day 3, Sun (1pm EST) Nov 5th Each contestant will have 2 minutes to pitch their project: feature, short, television series, or documentary. Verbal pitches only (no ppt, video clips, etc necessary).
Past prizes include Script Breakdown and Schedule, 1-on-1 Producer's Session with CREW ME UP, a 4 week Screenwriter's Course with Jacob Krueger Studios, legal consultations experienced entertainment attorneys, other discounts, professional consultations, all valued at over $10,000. The winner is chosen Sunday afternoon.

Rules & Terms

The application process includes a short video testimonial by each applicant. Using your cell phone create a short video, no more than 3 minutes, that ...

a) tell us who you are and how you discovered Northeast Filmmakers Lab (were you referred by someone?)
b) tell us about your project, why this project? why you? why now?
c) if chosen, why you would be a good fit -- what can you bring to share with other filmmakers? the Lab will help you, how will you help others in the lab?

1 minute for each question, short, simple ... on an iPhone.

We value our time and the information you will be receiving during the three day lab. Up to two participants per project may attend. At least one person must be present (virtual or in person) in order to participate in the Closing Pitch Competition.

If appearing in person, applicants cover their own travel and lodging, however, some meals may be provided such that the lab is at no cost to Lab Fellows. We also provide nominal travel stipends for those traveling in person. What filmmaker lab does that? We have for the past 10 years.

Chosen lab fellows are invited to attend follow-up meetings with industry mentors, making the lab a year round resource. Projects further in development may be the focus of the lab, however, projects in all stages are considered.

Upon completion of your project, filmmakers must recognize NEFL in your project's closing credits, "This project supported in part by (insert NEFL Logo)" which we provide.

Read our reviews from filmmakers and industry experts. We are well worth the entry fee.

32 Reviews
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  • Rachel Thomas-Medwid

    Honored to be one of the lab fellows for NEFL10 and came away with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration! The insight and support from the industry mentors and the NEFL team through the panels, events, and one-on-one meetings was invaluable. Thank you for providing such a supportive and educational experience in a packed three days leading up to the pitch contest. I highly recommend applying to this lab...what I learned and the connections I made will last long past the on-site experience!

    November 2023
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  • Elahe Gol Pari

    I consider myself fortunate to have discovered the Northeast Filmmakers Lab just when I was contemplating a move from my hometown in Schenectady in search of the networking necessary to carve my path in my career post-immigration. The three days spent at the lab were a pleasant surprise, filled with valuable information and shared experiences among a diverse group of professionals spanning different generations. The friendly atmosphere and the beautiful setting at Armory Studio added to the overall positive experience.

    Upon reflection, I've come to understand the crucial role of thorough preparation, particularly in effectively conveying my project, considering English is my second language. For fellow filmmakers facing a similar situation, my advice is to delve deeply into understanding the nuances of the lab, enabling a more informed approach to refining your materials for maximum impact. Remember, even if you encounter challenges, rest assured that you are in safe hands.
    Despite my learning curve, the immersive experience was invaluable, leading to the discovery of wonderful friends and colleagues. I am grateful for the opportunity, highly recommend it to others, and wish the Northeast Filmmakers Lab continued success and fruitful endeavors. Thank you!!!

    November 2023
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  • Rebecca Mlinek

    NEFL10 was genuinely a life changing experience! I went into the lab weekend feeling a little overwhelmed and demoralized with my project, and came out not only feeling energized and prepared to tackle the next steps, but inspired by my fellow filmmakers and the mentors. The work we did during the lab was demanding and I learned a lot within a very small space of time, and the panel discussions gave us all a lot of insight into current trends in filmmaking. It required significant travel for me, but was more than worth the time and effort!

    The town itself is unique with an interesting history, and exceptionally supportive of filmmakers. I will definitely be returning to Schenectady in the future, hopefully to shoot something in an Armory soundstage!

    November 2023
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  • Jennifer Marcano

    Participating in NEFL10 was an honor and a wonderful experience. I made connections that I deeply value and truly feel that this has helped me take my film to the next level. I am so thankful for all the time and care that the lab mentors and organizers shared with us all.

    November 2023
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  • Nela Wagman


    The Northeast Filmmakers Lab is truly awesome – thrilling and inspiring, challenging and highly enriching. An amazingly supportive and knowledgeable community by which it is a privilege to feel welcomed. The lab carefully and effectively offers an intense and professional immersion in the necessary art of pitching, leading to a better understanding of the work in general. I could not recommend it more highly.

    November 2023
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