This unique panel discussion will explore a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most successful film festivals. Panelists will discuss critical areas such as talent selection, corporate sponsorship, membership, filmmaker services and more. Attendees will learn how each department effectively works together, providing the best experience for film festivals and audiences alike.

Back by popular demand you'll have the opportunity to meet with your conference 'Living Group'. Attendees will be grouped together so that starting on day one you have the chance to meet new contacts and maximize your conference experience.

In addition to meeting your Living Group for the first time you will also take part in an interactive discussion and problem solving activity on some of the most pressing issues festivals are currently faced with. Each group will be asked to submit 3 solutions that will be turned in to the IFFS staff and all results will be made available to attendees on the last day of the conference.

An unconference is a meeting where the participants drive the activity. There’s no set agenda and no set presentations, but a discussion that people leave and join as they see fit.

Don’t miss this guided open forum to engage your colleagues and gain insight to the most pressing issues you and your festival are facing. This session will provide attendees an opportunity to both, ask questions and get answers on specific issues facing their film festival.

Come prepared to engage one another and share pearls of wisdom that have been learned over the years. At the close of each day attendees will have the chance to revisit pressing issues and share in this interactive environment.

Topics can include, but are not limited to:
Budgeting, Programming, Sponsorship, PR, Premieres, Staffing and Volunteers, Filmmaker Relations, Social Media, Board Management, and many more….

You won’t want to miss this year’s opening cocktail reception where you will have the opportunity to meet new colleagues and catch up with old friends.  You will also have the opportunity to meet with and learn about some of the latest technology and service providers working with the festival community.

Hear from some of the most successful film festivals in the world on how to nurture and collaborate with filmmakers before, during and after the festival to bolster their careers and keep them coming back to your festival when they hit it big!  We will also hear from renowned filmmakers about their experiences at the festivals that discovered them.

Thie renaissance of culturally specific films and festivals - Asian, Latino, Black, Jewish, LBGT and more - has created a plethora of new opportunities and challenges in independent film and festivals. This panel will explore the specific issues of running a niche film festival.

This session will address optimizing your digital strategy for social media tools (facebook, twitter, foursquare, etc.), mobile app integration and other methods for enhanced audience engagement.   Many of these tools are free, but the knowledge and experience to use them effectively comes at a premium. We will also look into tapping into the power of apps to transact business, sell more tickets, merchandise and more!

More and more music festivals are incorporating film and vice versa.  Everyone agrees it is successful but how does one get the right film and band to create a memorable multi-media experience that doesn’t break the bank or create havoc in your traditional festival atmosphere.  Hear some great success stories that will inspire you to get started on your own multi-media festival experience!