The Detroit Filmmaker Awards 2026 are now open for submissions from filmmakers across the country! To qualify, each project must include a Detroiter as a lead or executive producer, producer, or director. This year’s competition highlights diversity, creativity, and excellence in independent filmmaking.

Submission Guidelines:

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• Feature Films: Must be 60+ minutes

• Short Films: Must be under 30 minutes

• Web Series: Must include at least 3 episodes

• Eligibility: Films must be completed between Dec 1, 2024 – Dec 1, 2025

• Submission Limit: Directors and production companies may submit up to 2 films

• How to Submit: All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway

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Submissions can be entered by the production company, director, or actors seeking nomination for Best Lead or Supporting Actor. Peer review groups, composed of professionals nationwide, will evaluate films on storytelling, quality, and execution. The Detroit Filmmaker Awards Committee will select nominees, while peer reviewers determine category winners.

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Awards & Recognition:
Only one official award statue will be presented per winning film or program. Additional duplicates for production categories may be purchased without modification to existing details.

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Deadline Extensions:
The peer review group reserves the right to approve or deny deadline extensions for any submission.

Join the movement that celebrates Detroit’s influence in independent cinema—submit your project to the Detroit Filmmaker Awards 2026 and be part of a legacy that honors diversity, innovation, and storytelling excellence.

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