The CNY Short Film Competition functions as an industry incubator for aspiring filmmakers connected to the Central New York region through residency or attendance at a regional college or university.

The program provides a unique opportunity for rising CNY filmmakers to work with industry professionals who serve in mentorship positions throughout four panel-selected short films, each supported with funding from the Innovation Group of CNY Arts.

Applicants receive the value of knowledge and experience from experienced producers who guide the panel-selected winners through an initial Production Boot Camp training course and then integrated guidance and advice throughout the pre-production process to final film festival submissions.

Update: The 3rd Annual CNY Short Film Competition

Exciting news for aspiring filmmakers and recent graduates from the Central New York region!

That is why we are pleased to confirm the 3rd Annual CNY Short Film Competition. Specific dates, application information, and Competition guidelines will be announced later this year.

Despite setbacks due to COVID, winners of the 2020 CNY SFC have successfully continued production of their shorts. We thank them for their resourcefulness, adaptability, and hard work, and we can’t wait to see the finished projects!

Innovation Group of CNY Arts believes that the arts are essential to the creative and commercial vitality of any community. Now more than ever before, advancing artistic enterprise remains critically important – especially after a year of unprecedented global challenges.

2020 Short Film Competition Winners

Download Current Guidelines

Please direct any inquiries to: film@cnyarts.org