Support SLIFF

About SLIFF

The St. Louis International Film Festival (SLIFF) is presented annually by the nonprofit arts organization, Cinema St. Louis (CSL). Since 1992, SLIFF has been elevating independent film through local presentations of global stories. Films screening at SLIFF may otherwise not be seen on the big screen, and the festival serves as a launch pad for filmmakers, both established and first-time, on their journey in the film industry. SLIFF is one of approximately 85 domestic film festivals that the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences sanctions. SLIFF’s annual Short Film Spotlight is a juried competition where filmmakers are selected for “Best of” awards. By winning one of these awards, the filmmakers are then eligible for an Oscar® nomination.

Support Independent Film

For more than 20 years, the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has underwritten 10% of the festival budget. This year, the NEA has chosen not to renew its $20,000 grant to the St. Louis International Film Festival, citing a shift in priorities aligned with the current administration’s agenda.

While we respect that their values may have changed, ours have not. Cinema St. Louis remains steadfast in our mission to provide cinematic experiences that enrich, educate, entertain, and build community. And we are not alone.

Many organizations in the region — especially those that share our commitment to inclusion and equality — have also seen their funding disappear. Some face even greater challenges than our own. Fortunately, thanks to you, our members, donors, and supporters, we’re in a position to help. And we intend to use our platform and resources to give space, visibility, and support to those who need it most.

And at SLIFF this year, you will see just that. We will be partnering with local groups to help raise awareness and funds for issues critical to maintaining the vibrancy of our St. Louis community.

If you’re in a position to help, please consider becoming a CSL Annual Member or a SLIFF sponsor to help us cover our gap and be in a solid position to give back throughout the year to both filmmakers and the St. Louis region.

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