Spotlight Documentary Awards

Spotlight Documentary Awards
Because the truth deserves the spotlight.

The Spotlight Documentary Awards recognizes the year’s most compelling, original, and impactful nonfiction storytelling. This is not a traditional film festival. It’s a focused, recognition-based program created to elevate documentary filmmakers and honor the stories that matter.

Whether your documentary uncovers injustice, inspires change, or shares a deeply personal perspective, this is where your work can be seen, respected, and remembered.

Why Submit

True Recognition
Your work won’t get lost in a long lineup. Every selected film is individually evaluated and celebrated for its voice, purpose, and power.

Boost Your Credibility
An award from Spotlight builds momentum for your film. It strengthens your press kit, your festival run, and your impact with funders, distributors, and audiences.

Open Submission Policy
We accept documentaries at any stage, from premieres to online releases, as long as you retain the rights and your story has something meaningful to say.

Judged by Documentary Professionals
Our panel includes filmmakers, programmers, and industry consultants who understand documentary work and respect the craft.

Optional Scoring
Judging scores are available by request after award announcements.

Optional Streaming Opportunity
The highest scoring documentary films may be invited to feature on FestFlix.tv , a curated streaming platform dedicated to outstanding independent cinema.
Participation is by invitation only and completely optional.

Spotlight Documentary Awards is built to support and elevate documentary filmmakers.
If you’re making work that matters, you deserve a platform that sees it.