National Film Festival for Talented Youth

The National Film Festival for Talented Youth (NFFTY) was founded by three Seattle teenagers in 2007, and has grown into the world’s largest film festival for emerging directors. Each year the festival showcases the best short films by directors aged 24 and under from all around the world.

NFFTY supports young filmmakers by offering funding opportunities, professional level workshops, and a networking experience unlike any other. In addition NFFTY.org hosts filmmaker resources, tips, news and information. 

Notable alumni of the program include Sean Wang (NFFTY ‘17, ‘18; Oscar nominee, director of DÌDI), Rayka Zehtabchi (NFFTY ‘16, ‘17, ‘18; Oscar winning director of Period. End of Sentence), Lance Oppenheim (NFFTY ‘13, ‘14, ‘17; director of Spermworld, Primetime), Chappell Roan (NFFTY ‘17, ‘22; Grammy winner), and many more! 

In 2025, the NFFTY program moved under the umbrella of SIFF. The 2026 festival featured over 250 short films from 30 states and 41 countries/territories, along with a pitch competition, keynotes, masterclasses, and networking events.

The 20th edition of the festival will take place April 1 - 4, 2027. Learn more at nffty.org!