submissions for nwf 2026 ARE NOW OPEN!

NorthwestFilmFest accepts entries exclusively via FilmFreeway, the world’s best online submissions platform. FilmFreeway offers free HD online screeners, Vimeo and YouTube integration, and more.

At NorthwestFilmFest, our motto is: "Fact | Fiction | Film". Held each spring in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, NorthwestFilmFest is looking for the best new indie films, docs, & docudramas. We are proud to present programming from around the world, and we're always looking for a healthy representation of Canadian and Albertan artists and filmmakers.

PLEASE NOTE: WE ARE A CANADIAN SCREEN AWARDS QUALIFYING FESTIVAL

Programming streams include:

PERSPECTIVE Alberta (Alberta Feature & Short Films),

MADE IN CANADA (Canadian Feature Films),

GLOBAL Visions (International Feature Films - including films from the United States),

MUSIC Docs (Music-themed Feature Films),

RAINBOW Visions (LGBTQ-themed Feature Films),

Based on a TRUE STORY (Docudramas & biopics), and

DOC SHORTS (ALL films under 30 minutes)

As we have done throughout the festival's history, we are pleased to waive submission fees for Alberta filmmakers. EMAIL US for a waiver code if you are an Alberta film.

NWF presents Audience Awards in the following categories:

Best Canadian Feature

Best International Feature

Best Music Doc

Best Alberta Film

Best Canadian Short

Best International Short