TIFA, the Toronto Independent Film Awards Inc. (formerly known as Toronto International Film and Video Awards Inc. TIFVA) is dedicated to awarding and showcasing the best independent films from around the world.
TIFA was started by independent filmmakers who understand the process of submitting to festivals and the challenges met when trying to get recognition for their work by professionals in the industry. That’s why TIFA offers so much – we want to support filmmakers and writers in any way we can!
TIFA’s core beliefs are the following – Accessibility, Equality and Diversity.
At TIFA we believe that everyone should be given equal opportunities to express their talents in film. For this reason TIFA screens and awards films and screenplays from every country, in all genres, and a range of independent budgets.
To help level the playing field we accept feature films in four sub-categories based on the project’s budget so films are not competing against others made at higher budgets. We also highlight categories that are often overlooked such as experimental films, web series, animations, music videos and children’s films.
TIFA is a strong supporter of diversity in filmmaking. Everyone has a story to tell and promoting diversity in the industry can only make it better. This year TIFA has received submissions from over 40 countries as we continue to expand our reach year after year. Our nominee list from 2015 included submissions from 18 countries! TIFA also believes in providing a platform for underrepresented groups in the industry to showcase their efforts through focused panels and events such as our women in filmmaking panel and various networking events.