Dear friends, colleagues and creators of independent cinema, we are pleased to invite you to our Made by Woman Independent Film Festival in Salzburg.

It will take place in the heart of Europe - the evergreen and atmospheric Salzburg. The city reverently preserves its centuries-old heritage and is one of the cultural centers of Austria. The great musician Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the first Austrian woman architect Hilda Crozzoli, the playwright and poet Thomas Bernhard and many others were born and created here. For thousands of years, the greatest melodies have been played here, bridging eras. The city used to be a filming location for movies and TV series. But it is surprising that with such a rich history the city does not have its own full-fledged film festival!

With its vibrant cultural life, Salzburg deserves to be a representative of the global film industry. That's why we decided to create a festival that not only supports independent cinema but also gives women in the film industry a chance to make their voices heard.

Our festival accepts submissions of films about women, films directed by women, and films featuring women.

We invite here those who think outside the box, who create films with strong stories, who inspire, and who are ready to show the world a women's point of view in filmmaking.

We know that the film festival industry is sometimes not open to independent filmmakers and even less receptive to female voices. Our festival is an attempt to change that. We want to support those who, without big studios or budgets, are creating art, telling important stories and communicating their vision of the world.

Made by Woman is not just a festival, it's a place where we will watch, discuss and discover new things. There will be no templates, no strict formats, and no restrictions. Just creativity, sincerity and freedom of expression. We aim to create a community where every participant feels supported and involved, where every project will find an appreciative audience and attention.

Come to Salzburg to be part of this new cultural movement. Together we can develop independent cinema and strengthen women's influence.

We look forward to seeing you,
Organizers of Made by Woman Independent Film Festival in Salzburg

Unlimited Vision Award
This festival's premier award is given to a filmmaker whose work stands out for originality, courage and innovation. This award symbolizes the pursuit of boundless creative horizons and celebrates those who push the boundaries of filmmaking.
Voices of Change Award
This award honors filmmakers whose films raise important themes, change perceptions and push for change. We recognize works that are unafraid of challenging questions and are able to resonate with audiences.
The historical legacy Award
This award honors representations of historical legacy in film. The Voices of Change Award recognizes filmmakers whose work explores the beauty and significance of cultural traditions, eras and histories with depth and insight. We support those who, with respect for the past, create vivid images in the present.

New Voices Award
Award for the best debut at the festival. It is created for beginners in cinema, whose first works will show a fresh look and their own handwriting. We believe that every story told with sincerity can be the beginning of a great journey.
Audience Choice Award
An audience award based on the results of voting. We believe that in cinema the voice of every audience is important. Films that resonate with the audience deserve special recognition.

Made by Woman Short Film Awards
The short film program at Made by Woman Independent Film Festival in Salt is a special place where every voice finds an audience. We have the utmost respect for the short meter, because it is the one that can sometimes convey the most sincere and powerful stories. Our awards in this section recognize unique achievements across genres and approaches.

Grand Prix for the best short film
Best Documentary Short Film Award
Prize for an emerging director for a short film
Prize for Best Animated Short Film
Prize for Best Experimental Short Film

Film categories and length
Short and feature-length films are accepted. Short films should be up to 40 minutes in length, feature-length films from 40 to 180 minutes.

Originality and copyright
The submitted film must be an original work of the participant and must not infringe on the copyrights or intellectual property rights of third parties. Use of archival footage, music or other people's images requires official permission.

Subtitles
All films not created in English or German must be subtitled in English.

Age Restrictions
We accept movies suitable for viewers over the age of 16. If the film contains violent scenes, profanity, or other elements that may limit the age audience, this should be disclosed at the time of submission.

Formats and technical requirements
Films must be submitted in MP4, MOV and DCP format with a minimum resolution of 1080p. Applications that do not meet the technical requirements may be rejected without further consideration.

Submission deadlines and participation in other festivals
The film must be submitted to the festival before the deadline date for receipt of entries. Participation in other film festivals is not prohibited.

Number of submissions
One author may submit an unlimited number of entries, but the film must fit within the category applied for. Each film must be submitted as a separate entry with a participation fee.

Jury decision and prizes
The decision of the jury is final and cannot be appealed. Selected films will be awarded and presented at an offline screening. If a participant cannot attend, he/she will be notified of the results of the festival by e-mail.

Screening rights and promotional materials
By submitting an application, the participant agrees to screen his/her film at the festival and to use film fragments (up to 1 minute) or posters in the promotional materials of the festival, including publications in social networks and on the festival website.