Join the
Coalition.
Whether you're an individual filmmaker, an organization, or an ally of independent film, there's a place for you in the Future Film Coalition.
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Filmmakers, artists, critics, and supporters who want to lend their voice to the movement. Join as an individual member and help shape the future of independent film.
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Film organizations, nonprofits, festivals, and industry groups aligned with our mission. Affiliate membership amplifies your organization's voice within the broader coalition.
Become an Affiliate →Membership FAQ
What is the Future Film Coalition?
Future Film Coalition (FFC) is a U.S.-based organization working to protect and strengthen the independent film and media sector. We focus on policy research, coalition-building, and advocacy to support sector-wide small businesses and entrepreneurship while serving the public interest.
Who can join?
If you work in or support the independent film and media space (e.g. filmmakers, exhibitors, distributors, nonprofit leaders, educators, attorneys, and other advocates), we want YOU! In order to join, you must complete an Individual Membership Form and/or an Affiliate form.
Should I join as an Individual or Affiliate? Or both?
It is possible to join as both an Individual Member and register your organization as an Affiliate. Each serves a distinct role within the coalition:
- ▸Individual Members participate directly in FFC's work. They have decision-making power to help guide the coalition's priorities through branch involvement, working groups, and field campaigns. If you are an artist, cultural worker, or film/media professional joining on your own behalf—such as a filmmaker, curator, editor, programmer, organizer, or educator—you should join as an Individual Member.
- ▸Affiliates represent businesses and organizations that support FFC. Affiliates help sustain FFC's work as allies and gain access to research, briefings, and strategic partnership opportunities. Affiliate membership is open to businesses, nonprofits, foundations, institutions, or other entities that contribute to the independent film ecosystem—from universities and law firms to post houses, philanthropic entities, and advocacy groups.
Important Note: To avoid duplicate profiles, registration for Affiliates should be completed by someone with decision-making authority (e.g., executive leadership, department head) or by a staff member formally nominated to represent the organization. The designated registrant for the Affiliate may also join as an Individual Member (on their own behalf) if they wish to participate in a Branch.
Still unsure? Reach out to us at members@futurefilmcoalition.org and we'll help you find the right fit.
Other questions? Email info@futurefilmcoalition.org.
Why join?
Members actively engage in protecting and strengthening the independent film sector, build momentum through national campaigns, and gain access to:
- ▸Research briefings and policy alerts with calls to action
- ▸Working groups organized by sector
- ▸Invitations to events, meetings, and strategy sessions
- ▸A national network of peers and allies
Is there a fee?
No. Membership is currently free to ensure broad access. Voluntary contributions are welcome, but not necessary.
What are branches?
Future Film Coalition organizes members into six branches: Filmmakers, Exhibitors, Distribution & Sales Agents, Artist Support Organizations, Media, Communication and Engagement, and Members At-Large. Branches help guide FFC's advocacy work and elect representatives to the Board.
Which branch is right for me?
Branch membership offers the opportunity to advise on key aspects of FFC's work—particularly research and policy efforts—while helping to identify cross-organization areas where policy, regulatory, or legal interventions may advance the interests of independent film and media. Members will build community, participate in advocacy campaigns, contact elected officials, and elect Branch Governors to the Board of Directors.
Artist Support Organizations Branch
- ▸At least one year of professional experience working as a staff member, contractor, or consultant at an artist-serving organization that serves independent film and media artists in the United States.
- ▸Organizations are defined as those with 501(c)(3) status or that are fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3). Exceptions considered on an ad hoc basis.
- ▸"Artists" are defined as all those who creatively contribute to filmmaking—e.g., editors or writers.
Distribution & Sales Agents Branch
- ▸Broad Market Theatrical & Sales Group: Must be a distributor or sales agent releasing a minimum of 3 independent films from major festivals per year; affiliated with an independent (non-MPA) distributor or talent/sales agency; with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience.
- ▸Targeted, Digital & Grassroots Group: Must meet at least one qualifying criterion and have a minimum of 5 years of experience in distribution or sales. Includes regional/targeted distributors, impact/non-theatrical specialists, and platform/aggregator service providers.
Exhibitor Branch
- ▸Active professionals with at least 3 years of experience in exhibition of independent film—including art houses, film festivals, microcinemas, series programmers, or digital platforms.
- ▸Members should view themselves as part of a shared ecosystem contributing to the sustainability of independent film.
- ▸Eligible exhibitors include in-person venues, digital/hybrid platforms with a curatorial commitment, and nonprofit, for-profit, or cooperative models.
Filmmaker Branch
- ▸Verifiable experience as an independent filmmaker (above or below the line) in the United States, with a minimum of one distributed feature film or three distributed short films.
- ▸Prospective members who do not meet this criteria are encouraged to explain how their service to the field will contribute to the Filmmakers Branch.
Media, Communications & Engagement Branch
- ▸Active media, communications, or engagement professionals with at least 5 years of professional experience working with the field of independent film.
- ▸For Publicists, Marketers, Digital Media, and Impact Professionals: at least 5 years of experience plus work on at least 2 feature films.
- ▸Prospective members who do not meet this criteria are encouraged to explain their case.
Members At-Large Branch
- ▸Working member in or adjacent to the independent film, storytelling or media industries for at least 5 years.
- ▸Includes managers, agents, lawyers, film financiers, foundations, academics, and others connected to the ecosystem in a material manner.
Why do you need my mailing address to join?
We use mailing addresses to verify congressional districts and advocate effectively at the state and federal levels. Accurate location data helps us connect members with the right elected officials. Providing a mailing address is optional, but preferred for long-term efficacy.
Do I need to be a registered voter?
No. You don't need to be a registered voter to join or participate in advocacy activities.
How is my data used?
We only collect the information needed to build an effective coalition. Your data is never shared or sold. It is used solely for internal purposes and anonymized advocacy reporting. You may request removal at any time.
Questions? Email info@futurefilmcoalition.org
Support the Coalition
A donation helps sustain our advocacy and community work.