GMIFF showcases a variety of independent short films of all genres, from all countries, with an emphasis on supporting new filmmakers from underrepresented communities. We want to find truly unique voices and share powerful stories.

GMIFF strives to create a truly unique experience and honor each filmmaker's work. Our festival is an opportunity to earn recognition for your work, network with other talented indie filmmakers, and enjoy a diverse selection of short films.

Season 4 of GMIFF will take place in July 2025.

Awards & Prizes

We offer one award in each of our 9 categories:
Best US Short
Best Vermont Short
Best International Short
Best Documentary Short
Best Animation Short
Best Experimental Short
Best Student Short
Best Web Series
Best Music Video

And a variety of additional awards:
​Best of Fest
Best Director
Best Student Filmmaker
Best Actress in a Leading Role
Best Actor in a Leading Role
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Best Producer
Best Screenwriting
Best Cinematography
Best Editing

Rules & Terms

GMIFF accepts independent short film projects of all genres from filmmakers of all experience levels. We are specifically looking for films that tell unique stories in fresh and interesting ways.

Rules:
1. You must own the rights to the film you wish to submit. Any copyrighted material in your film (including music, images, and footage) must be properly licensed. By submitting your film you confirm that there are no copyright infringements on your behalf.
2. All films not in English must have English subtitles.
3. Films must be no longer than 25 minutes, including credits.
4. We accept submissions exclusively through FilmFreeway.
5. You authorize Green Mountain International Film Festival to share your film poster, trailer, synopsis, still images, and footage from your film on our website and social media for promotional purposes.
6. You authorize the publication of your name, photograph, and likeness on our website and in any publicity/promotional activities regarding the Green Mountain International Film Festival.
7. Filmmakers may submit multiple films.
8. All submission fees are nonrefundable.
9. Our jury decides which films become Official Selections, Award Nominees, and Award Winners. We will not provide feedback regarding your film's status.
10. You may not withdraw your film from the festival after your film has been Officially Selected.
11. Should your film be officially selected, you must be able to provide a downloadable copy of your film in at least 1080p quality.
12. Selected filmmakers will receive 2 free festival passes.

Best of luck, and we look forward to viewing your work!

** NOTE: WE ARE NOT A SCREENWRITING CONTEST. WE DO NOT ACCEPT UNPRODUCED SCREENPLAYS. WE JUDGE FINISHED FILMS ONLY **
15 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Tess Holbrook

    Honored to have The End Of October play along side an amazing selection of international films!

    August 2025
    Helpful
  • Kelly Sallaway

    Warm and welcoming, the Green Mountain International Film Festival is tops in communication!

    August 2025
    Helpful
  • Niall Cunningham

    So grateful to be a part of GMIFF!

    July 2024
    Helpful
  • gwen thomson

    Fantastic festival run by wonderful - together people. Thank you so much for including Echdoe.

    June 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you for your kind words, and for sharing Echdoe with us!

  • Yufei Du

    Great film festival. Communication is nice and clear. Also offers option to opt in online screening. Thanks for having my film project this year!

    June 2024
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much for sharing your experience! Colours Set was such a wonderful addition to our program this year - thank you for sharing it with us!