Discover the film festival awards from 2006 to present. Festival Film Awards NBPT DOCU FEST 2006 thru this year FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit Reset Search Use the menu to sort by date and display below. Multiple selections allowed Filter items with Year 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 BEST SHORT FILM POPPY CRASH 2025 Film Director ANDALUSIA K. SOLOFF THE DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD THE PAINTED LIFE OF GREGORY GILLESPIE 2025 Film Director EVAN GOODCHILD BEST NEW ENGLAND SHORT FILM DUKAKIS: RECIPE FOR DEMOCRACY 2025 Film Director ERIN TRAHAN, JEFF SCHMIDT AUDIENCE AWARD CHECKPOINT ZOO 2025 Film Director JOSHUA ZEMAN BEST NEW ENGLAND FEATURE FILM UNLESS SOMETHING GOES TERRIBLY WRONG 2025 Film Director KAITLYN SCHWALJE, ALEX WOLF LEWIS YES AWARD WINNER METTLE 2025 Film Director CHELSEA CASABONA & SURABHI SUNDARAM BEST FIRST TIME FEATURE FILM THE OPENER 2025 Film Director JEFF TOYE BEST FEATURE FILM NIGHT FIGHT 2025 Film Director KHARY SAEED JONES AUDIENCE AWARD PINK BELT 2024 Film Director John McCrite BEST NEW ENGLAND FEATURE FAR OUT: LIFE ON AND AFTER THE COMMUNE 2024 Film Director Charles John Light BEST SHORT FILM FROM GOD TO MAN 2024 Film Director Lansana Mansaray BEST NEW ENGLAND SHORT THE KATZ TAPES 2024 Film Director Adam Fischer DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD DANCING ON THE EDGE OF A VOLCANO 2024 Film Director Cyril Aris YES AWARD THE PAHLEVAN ON FIFTH AVE 2024 Film Director Pranay Sanwal BEST FEATURE HOLLYWOODGATE 2024 Film Director Ibrahim Nash'at BEST FIRST-TIME FILMMAKER DRIVER 2024 Film Director Nesa Azimi BEST FIRST-TIME FILMMAKER BRIEF, TENDER LIGHT 2023 Film Director Arthur Musah BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM SLOANE: A JAZZ SINGER 2023 Film Director Michael Lippert DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD KIM'S VIDEO 2023 Film Director Ashley Sabin, David Redmon BEST SHORT FILM MILK FACTORY 2023 Film Director Corinne Botz AUDIENCE AWARD IMMEDIATE FAMILY 2023 Film Director Denny Tedesco YES AWARD GUND KWOK 2023 Film Director Xudong Liu BEST FEATURE RIDERS ON THE STORM 2023 Film Director Jason Motlagh, Mark Oltmanns DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD JACK HAS A PLAN 2022 Film Director Bradley Berman BEST FIRST-TIME FILMMAKER GO THROUGH THE DARK 2022 Film Director Yunhong Pu YES AWARD THE SKIN AM IN 2022 Film Director Rajaiah Jones AUDIENCE AWARD THE WAKE UP CALL 2022 Film Director Alison Gilkey, Eric Neudel BEST SHORT FILM WHAT TRAVELERS ARE SAYING 2022 Film Director Hope Tucker BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM FREE RENTY 2022 Film Director David Grubin BEST FEATURE DELIKADO 2022 Film Director Karl Malakunas DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD AN UNINTERRUPTED VIEW OF THE SEA 2021 Film Director MIKA YATSUHASHI SPECIAL JURY AWARD THIS IS OUR SCHOOL 2021 Film Director IQBAL BARKAT & MAREE DELOFSKI BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM LOCKSHOP 2021 Film Director CARA FEINBERG BEST SHORT FILM TAKEOVER 2021 Film Director EMMA FRANCIS-SNYDER BEST FIRST TIME FILMMAKER GAMES OF SURVIVAL 2021 Film Director A CULTURE PRESERVED IN ICE BEST FEATURE FILM MISSING IN BROOKS COUNTY 2021 Film Director LISA MOLOMOT AND JEFF BEMISS DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD DAFFA METTI (DIFFICULT) 2020 Film Director TAL AMIRAN BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM WE BEGAN TO SING 2020 Film Director POLLY WELLS SPECIAL JURY AWARD DOPE IS DEATH 2020 Film Director MIA DONOVAN BEST FEATURE FILM CAN ART STOP A BULLET? 2020 Film Director WILLIAM KELLY’S BIG PICTURE – MARK STREET BEST SHORT FILM KEEP SARAY HOME 2020 Film Director BRIAN REDONDO SPECIAL JURY AWARD THE WALRUS AND THE WHISTLEBLOWER 2020 Film Director NATHALIE BIBEAU BEST FIRST TIME FILMMAKER THE ART OF DISSENT 2020 Film Director JAMES DEAN LE SUEUR DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD HAIL SATAN? 2019 Film Director PENNY LANE BEST FIRST TIME FILMMAKER WHO KILLED LT. VAN DORN? 2019 Film Director ZACHARY STAUFFER BEST FEATURE FILM PARIAH DOG 2019 Film Director JESSE ALK BEST SHORT FILM MOTORCYCLE MAN 2019 Film Director DANIEL LOVERING AUDIENCE AWARD RUNNER 2019 Film Director BILL GALLAGHER SPECIAL JURY CINEPHILE AWARD SAVING BRINTON 2018 Film Director ANDREW SHERBURN & TOMMY HAINES BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM BLACK MEMORABILIA 2018 Film Director CHICO COLVARD BEST FEATURE FILM CRIME + PUNISHMENT 2018 Film Director STEPHEN MAING BEST SHORT FILM HOW’S YOUR TIME, WU? 2018 Film Director TUAN PENG SPECIAL AUDIENCE AWARD LETTER FROM MASANJIA 2018 Film Director LEON LEE BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM BALIAN (THE HEALER) 2018 Film Director DANIEL D. MCGUIRE BEST FIRST TIME FILMMAKER STATE OF EXCEPTION 2018 Film Director JASON O’HARA BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM THE LAST PIG 2017 Film Director ALLISON ARGO BEST SHORT FILM SAND MEN 2017 Film Director TAI AMIRAN SPECIAL JURY COMMENDATION TRUE CONVICTION 2017 Film Director JAMIE MELTZER AUDIENCE AWARD DEEJ 2017 Film Director ROBERT ROOY BEST FIRST TIME FILMMAKER DEMOCRACY THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS 2017 Film Director KEVIN BOWE BEST FEATURE FILM FURUSATO 2017 Film Director THORSTEN TRIMPOP SPECIAL JURY COMMENDATION ANGELO UNWRITTEN 2017 Film Director ALICE STONE BEST SHORT FILM ANIMATION HOTLINE 2016 Film Director DUSTIN GRELLA BEST FEATURE FILM JACKSON – MAISIE CROW 2016 Film Director MAISIE CROW BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM WHAT TOMORROW BRINGS 2016 Film Director BETH MURPHY AUDIENCE AWARD FOOD FIGHT: INSIDE THE BATTLE FOR MARKET BASKET 2016 Film Director JAY CHILDS SPECIAL JURY COMMENDATION DIVER 2015 Film Director CHRISTOPHE GELFAND & CAROLINE LOSNECK BEST SHORT FILM SPEARHUNTER 2015 Film Director ADAM ROFFMAN & LUKE POLING SPECIAL JURY COMMENDATION THE WAY WE TALK 2015 Film Director MICHAEL TURNER BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM CIRCUS WITHOUT BORDERS 2015 Film Director SUSAN GRAY AUDIENCE AWARD RIGHT FOOTED 2015 Film Director NICK SPARK BEST FEATURE FILM LOVE BETWEEN THE COVERS 2015 Film Director LAURIE KAHN AUDIENCE AWARD I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY 2014 Film Director DAVE LAMATTINA BEST FEATURE FILM OUR MOCKINGBIRD 2014 Film Director SANDY JAFFE BEST SHORT FILM STUMPED 2014 Film Director ROBIN BERGHAUS BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM DIVIDE IN CONCORD 2014 Film Director KRIS KACZOR SPECIAL MENTION - SHORT LIFE ACCORDING TO SAM 2013 Film Director SEAN FINE & ANDREA NIX AUDIENCE AWARD SOLO, PIANO – NYC 2013 Film Director ANTHONY SHERIN BEST SHORT FILM CAVEDIGGER 2013 Film Director JEFFREY KAROFF BEST NEW ENGLAND FILM SECUNDARIA 2013 Film Director MARY JANE DOHERTY BEST FEATURE FILM RAWFAITH 2013 Film Director GREGORY ROSCOE VIEW MORE GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

The YES event honors emerging filmmakers, presenting films by recent graduates from colleges and universities. The program highlights new talent, and a $1000 first-place prize is awarded to an outstanding individual for their contribution to the cinematic landscape. Y oung Emerging Showcase YES Film Submissions NBPT DOCU FEST FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit Submissions are Open YES Film Submissions for 2026 Sponsored by 2025 YES Finalists L to R Surabhi Sundaram (METTLE - Columbia U School of Journalism); Anna Carroll (The POMtastics -Lesley University); Anni Spacek (How to Be Seen - Loyola Marymount University) Winner of the 2025 YES Award YES (Young Emerging-Filmmakers Showcase) celebrates new and emerging filmmakers. The program features films showcasing the work of current and recent graduates from colleges and universities nationwide as perhaps their first opportunity to present finished work to the general public. Award finalists attend and participate in Festival activities, including the Filmmaker's Roundtable. A first-place prize of $1000.00 is awarded to one individual helping to fuel the winner’s next creative endeavor. *Rules & Eligibility : Entries are limited to either current students or recent under graduates up to three years post-degree and Master’s degree-bearing individuals one-year post degree. Additionally, filmmakers with an established film production company are ineligible. All entries are non-fiction or documentary in nature and execution. The Film should be no less than 6 minutes and no more than 25 minutes in duration. The Submission deadline is June 8, 2026. Please fill out the form below and click Submit. We look forward to reviewing your submissions. First and Last Name* Email* Phone Number* School Name* Graduation Year & Degree* If currently a student, status level* Film Name* URL Location of Film for Viewing* URL Location to Download* Film Duration* Description of Film* How did you hear abut YES* Clicking submit you agree to the terms and conditions set forth. Submit * Additional Rules & Terms: The submitter and or filmmaker has read and understood the rules and regulations and to the best of their knowledge, all statements are true.The submitter is duly authorized to submit this to the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival. Upon submission, the submitter and or filmmaker consents to allowing their screener material to be shared in its entirety with appropriate Newburyport Documentary Film Festival staff, including programming staff, volunteer screeners, and other appropriate members of staff; shared with press outlets in efforts to secure press for the film; with final jury members; and with select individuals representing community partners who may be interested in supporting the film’s screening or taking part in a panel or Q&A associated with the film. The festival is hereby also granted the right to utilize image(s) and/or biographical information of the submitter and or filmmaker for promotional purposes. The Festival retains editorial rights to modify descriptive or written portions of the submission. GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Join the mailing list to keep current on events we host year-long. 978.572.0993 | Contact Us FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit NBPT DOCU FEST Join the Mailing List Join the Mailing List GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

2025 Festival September 26-28 Our 21st year Newburyport Documentary Film Festival NBPT DOCU FEST JOIN OUR MAILING LIST FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit We are the Filmmakers' Film Festival Submissions for our 2026 Festival are now open Submissions for our 2026 Festival are now open, and we would love for you to submit new work and remain part of our growing filmmaking community. Please feel free to share the news with your fellow filmmakers as well—we welcome their voices, too. As we begin the New Year, we wish you happiness, good health, and continued creativity. We look forward to staying connected and to discovering the powerful, inspiring stories you’ll bring to life in the year ahead. THE WATCH CLUB THE WATCH CLUB: BOMBSHELL Eighty years after the devastating atomic bombings that ushered in the nuclear age, BOMBSHELL explores how the U.S. government manipulated the narrative about the attacks on the Japanese cities Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Through propaganda, censorship, and the co-opting of the press, the government presented a benevolent picture of atomic power, minimizing the horrific human toll. The latest film from PBS’s American Experience sheds light on the efforts of a group of intrepid reporters to let the world know the truth. Boston-based filmmaker Ben Loeterman is a longtime contributor to Frontline and American Experience. He is the director of 1913: SEEDS OF CONFLICT (2014), about the modern-day origins of the age-old antagonism in Palestine. Watch BOMBSHELL, now streaming on PBS American Experience. Then make plans to join us in THE WATCH CLUB for a live Q&A with director Ben Loeterman at 7 p.m. ET Wednesday, January 28. Watch the interview anytime afterward on our website. Watch the Interview Watch the film PBS What is THE WATCH CLUB? Keep the conversation going throughout the year in THE WATCH CLUB. It's like a book club, but for documentaries. Each month we'll recommend a new documentary to stream, then invite you to join us on YouTube and Facebook for a live online Q&A with the filmmaker. Archive Our 2025 Festival Winners BEST FEATURE FILM: NIGHT FIGHT Director: Khary Saeed Jones BEST SHORT FILM: POPPY CRASH Director: Andalusia K. Soloff BEST NEW ENGLAND FEATURE FILM: UNLESS SOMETHING GOES TERRIBLY WRONG Directors: Kaitlyn Schwalje, Alex Wolf Lewis BEST NEW ENGLAND SHORT FILM: DUKAKIS: RECIPE FOR DEMOCRACY Directors: Erin Trahan, Jeff Schmidt BEST FIRST TIME FEATURE FILM: THE OPENER Director: Jeff Toye THE DAVID KLEILER CINEPHILE AWARD: THE PAINTED LIFE OF GREGORY GILLESPIE Director: Evan Goodchild AUDIENCE AWARD: CHECKPOINT ZOO Director: Joshua Zeman 2025 YES Award winner: METTLE Directors: Surabhi Sundaram & Chelsea Casabona Columbia University School of Journalism’s Master’s Program Our 2025 Program Our Sponsors The Newburyport Documentary Film Festival is supported in part by grants from the local cultural councils of the surrounding towns as well as our local sponsors. If you would like to become a sponsor, please visit our Sponsors page GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Our Sponsors supporting the Newburyport Documentary FIlm Festival NBPT DOCU FEST Our Sponsors FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors and Donors! Producer $1500 Director $1000 Crew $500 Thank You to Our Donors Dowd Freundlich Fund at ImpactAssets Past Sponsors Illume Books Brine Oyster Bar Loretta Sea Level Oyster Bar NU Kitchen DeGeorge Home Improvements Stone Ridge Properties Essex Street Inn Touchstone Closing Sustain Boutique Institution for Savings Amesbury Cultural Council Newburyport Cultural Council Massachusetts Cultural Council Become part of the local documentary community The Newburyport Documentary Film Festival (NDFF) is a non-profit independent organization that relies on contributions and in-kind support from a range of sponsors. By advertising with or sponsoring NDFF, you’ll align your company’s brand with an established New England cultural event that reaches a range of stakeholders. NDFF is now more visible than ever, established as one of the preeminent social and cultural events North of Boston, as well as launching very popular year round programming. Reaching thousands of people throughout the year, NDFF is one of the region’s premiere film festivals and is an integral resource to local industry professionals who attend. Open your brand up to local and regional media coverage by advertising with or sponsoring the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival. We have many opportunities to promote your organization including: Your advertisement in our festival program Listing your organization and website link on our website Exposure by sponsoring a film or a film-maker Sponsor one of our hospitality events to promote to the local community To learn more about available sponsorship opportunities contact us. Download the pdf Become a Sponsor GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

We invite you to connect with our festival in a unique and meaningful way by hosting one of our visiting filmmakers. It's a wonderful opportunity to share your hospitality, gain insight into the creative process, and experience the festival from an entirely new perspective. Contact us below to learn more and get involved! September 26-28 Filmmaker Hosting NBPT DOCU FEST FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit Interested in Hosting a Filmmaker? September 26-28 We invite you to connect with our festival in a unique and meaningful way by hosting one of our visiting filmmakers. It's a wonderful opportunity to share your hospitality, gain insight into the creative process, and experience the festival from an entirely new perspective. Contact us below to learn more and get involved! * First name * Last name * Email * Phone * Address and City Your home address (if different from your host address) The festival dates are 9/26-9/28/2025. Most of our filmmakers need housing Friday, September 26th through Sunday, September 28th, 2025. Would you be able to accommodate Friday through Sunday? Yes No No -- If not, please specify How many filmmakers can you host? 1 2 3 4 Is guest housing in a separate unit? Yes No If housing is not a separate unit does it have its own entrance? Yes No Does the housing have a separate bathroom? Yes No Can the filmmaker have access to a kitchen? Yes No Can the filmmaker have access to the internet from the room? Yes No Please describe your available accommodations for NDFF Filmmakers and anything noteworthy about the property. Do you have any pets, and if so, what kind? Dog(s) Cat(s) Additional questions and comments. Submit GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

We proudly accept entries via FilmFreeway, the world's best online submission platform. FilmFreeway offers free HD online screeners, unlimited video storage, digital press kits, and more. FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit Seeking Filmmakers' Submissions NBPT DOCU FEST Submit A Film 2025 Festival September 26-28 Film Selection We proudly accept entries via FilmFreeway , the world's best online submission platform. FilmFreeway offers free HD online screeners, unlimited video storage, digital press kits, and more. The NBPT Docu Fest presents world-class documentaries in an intimate setting in Newburyport, MA. Programming includes screenings, filmmaker receptions, Q&A panels, after-parties and workshops. Our audience loves to interact with filmmakers. Qualifying filmmakers traveling to MA receive two nights lodging. We recognize Best Feature, Best Short, Best New England Film, First-Time Filmmaker, the Audience Award, and the David Kleiler Cinephile Award. See our awards from last year. GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

We participate in the Card to Culture program, a collaboration between the Mass Cultural Council and the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Nutrition Program, and the Massachusetts Health Connector, by broadening accessibility to cultural programming. EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders receive a 50% discount on all in-person film screenings presented by the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival. FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit 2024 Festival September Our 20th year! NBPT DOCU FEST Card To Culture We are proud to participate in Mass Cultural Council's Card to Culture program in collaboration with the Department of Transitional Assistance, the Department of Public Health's WIC Nutrition Program, the Massachusetts Health Connector, and hundreds of organizations by making cultural programming accessible to those for whom cost is a participation barrier. EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders receive a 50% discount on 2 tickets for one film screening presented by the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival. Email us to receive the special promo code to order tickets online when tickets go on sale. Email us for the Promo Code GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Programs NBPT DOCU FEST In addition to NDFF we offer year-round programs and events FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit World-Class Documentary Films Year-Round GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Filmmaker Registration September 26-28 Filmmaker Registration NBPT DOCU FEST FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit * FILM NAME * Confirm your participation in the festival. Yes, I confirm No, I decline Contact me * First name * Last name Primary Contact for film, if different from above. Primary Contact email, if different from above. * Will you be attending the festival September 26-28. Yes No Undecided Do you need lodging? Yes No Undecided Do you have any questions at this time? The Newburyport Documentary Film Festival reserves the right to edit filmmaker materials for marketing and ticket sales as needed, including (but not limited to) your synopsis, still images and trailer. After you submit our Film Concierge will contact you. Submit Important Upload your film, Trailer & EPK here Please confirm your participation in the festival GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Learn about the Newburyport Documentary FIlm Festival NBPT DOCU FEST Code of Ethics & Bylaws FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit NDFF's Charity Registration Search for NDFF Filings Use NDFF's Employer Identification Number (EIN) 81-3196192 to search for NDFF's filings. Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General We, as volunteers of the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival (staff and board members) dedicate ourselves to carrying out the mission of this organization. We will do the following: 1. Recognize that the chief function of the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival (NDFF) at all times is to serve the best interests of our constituency. 2. Accept as a personal duty the responsibility to keep up to date on emerging issues and to conduct ourselves with professional competence, fairness, impartiality, efficiency, and effectiveness. 3. Respect the structure and responsibilities of the board, provide them with facts and advice as a basis for their making policy decisions, and uphold and implement policies adopted by the board. 4. Keep the community informed about issues affecting it. 5. Conduct our organizational and operational duties with positive leadership exemplified by open communication, creativity, dedication, and compassion. 6. Exercise whatever discretionary authority we have under the law to carry out the mission of the organization. 7. Serve with respect, concern, courtesy, and responsiveness in carrying out the organization’s mission. 8. Demonstrate the highest standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, honesty, and fortitude in all our activities in order to inspire confidence and trust in our activities. 9. Avoid any interest or activity that is in conflict with the conduct of our official duties. 10. Respect and protect privileged information to which we have access in the course of our official duties. 11. Strive for personal and professional excellence and encourage the professional developments of others. Code of Ethics BYLAWS OF the Newburyport Film Festival, Inc. Commonwealth of Massachusetts BACKGROUND: The name of this non-profit organization: Newburyport Film Festival, Inc. (aka Newburyport Documentary Film Festival, NBPTDocuFest or NDFF). This organization is organized in accordance with the General Law of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Title XXII, Chapter 180, as amended. The organization has not been formed for the purposes of making profit or obtaining personal financial gain. The assets and income of this organization shall not be distributed to or for the benefit of the trustees, directors, or any other officers. The assets and income shall only be used to promote non-profit purposes as described below. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to prohibit the payment of a modest and reasonable compensation to employees and contractors for services provided for the benefit of the organization. This organization shall not carry on any activities not permitted to be carried out by a non-profit organization exempt from federal income tax. The organization shall not endorse any candidate or contribute to or work for or otherwise support or oppose any candidate for public office. This organization has been created exclusively for purposes subsequent to section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. PURPOSE: We are the ‘filmmakers' film festival. Our objective is to present thought-provoking, high- caliber and entertaining documentary film to the vibrant cultural community of greater Newburyport. We bring the world to the Clipper City by curating the best of documentary film. With each showcase, we encourage meaningful interaction with our neighbors about social issues, current and historic events, and sometimes the sheer delight of life on planet Earth. Many of our film screenings are enhanced by intimate discussions with relevant experts and, whenever possible, the filmmakers themselves, providing our audiences with a unique immersive experience. ARTICLE I. MEETINGS Annual Meetings. An annual meeting shall be held once every calendar year for the purposes of electing officers, directors and transaction of such other business as may properly come before the meeting. The annual meeting shall be held at the time and place designated by the Board of Directors and shall be open to all officers, directors and committee members. Unless it falls on a holiday or otherwise is designated by the Board of Directors via written notice, the officers/directors shall meet for their annual meeting on the first Monday in February each year. If this date falls on a holiday, the Board shall select an alternate date and send an electronic notice Revision .6 February 2, 2021, 1 of 9 at least two weeks in advance of the meeting. The quorum will be determined when full membership is established. The following orders of business shall be addressed during the annual meeting unless decided otherwise by the Board of Directors via written notice: • Election of new directors • Reviewing the annual report • Reconciling the balance sheet • Any other transaction of such other business as may be properly brought before the meeting. Regular Meetings. Regular meetings shall be held monthly in order to address ongoing operations which fall under the purview of BOD members. Regular meetings are held on the first Monday of the month and may be suspended as determined by the Executive Director a minimum of 48 hours in advance. Special Meetings. Special meetings may be requested by the Board of Directors. A special meeting of members is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of teleconference or another form of electronic communications in a manner pursuant to which all members have the chance to read and/or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, raise points on matters submitted to the members, pose questions, and make comments. Notice. The following amount of written notice of all regular meetings shall be provided under this section or as otherwise required by law: one month. The following amount of written notice of special meetings shall be provided under this section or as otherwise required by law: 48 hours. The notice shall include the date, hour, and location of the meeting and, if for a special meeting, the purpose of the meeting; no other business shall be covered. Such notice shall be deemed effective when sent by ordinary U.S. mail, properly addressed, with paid postage or by electronic mail with return receipt requested. Quorum. A quorum of the Directors shall be the following: 66.6% In the absence of a quorum, a majority of the directors may delay and reschedule the meeting to another time without further notice. If a quorum is represented at a rescheduled meeting, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally scheduled. The directors present at a meeting represented by a quorum may continue to transact business until adjournment, even if the withdrawal of some directors results in a representation of less than a quorum. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 2 of 9 ARTICLE II. BOARD OF DIRECTORS and OFFICERS All members of the Board shall be identified as “directors”. Role of Directors. The Board of Directors shall be responsible for having the authority of managing the affairs of the Nonprofit directly and/or by delegation. The Board of Directors is not compensated. Number of Directors. The organization shall be managed by a Board of Directors consisting of 5-11 directors, three of whom are also officers. The remaining members will serve as At-Large Directors (voting). There may be an Advisory Director (non- voting). Two or more offices may be held by one person. Number of Officers. The Officers of the organization shall be as follows: an Executive Director; a Secretary, and a Treasurer. Two or more offices may be held by one person. The Executive Director may not concurrently serve in another position. Officer Roles. The Officers shall have the following responsibilities in their roles: Executive Director -- The Executive Director shall develop agendas and preside over all meetings of the Board of Directors, sign all corporate documents unless they delegate that responsibility to another Officer, and direct the process of the creation and implementation of resolutions. Secretary -- The Secretary shall provide notice of any and all meetings to the Board of Directors, keep an updated list of the membership of the Board of Directors, keep and organize minutes for all regular and special meetings, and certify and arrange the official records of the organization. Treasurer -- The Treasurer shall be responsible for conducting the organization's financial affairs as directed by the Board of Directors and shall prepare and present reports regarding the organization’s finances as required, but no less often than at the annual meeting of the Board of Directors. The Treasurer will have signature authority as does the Executive Director. Election and Term of Office. There will be a call for nominations each year in November to all officers, directors, committee members, and volunteer members. At closure of the nomination process, the current BOD will deliberate and create a new slate of officers/directors to be voted on at the Annual Meeting. The new slate shall be presented for a majority vote at the annual meeting. Each officer/director shall serve a three year term with the ability to run again when the term expires, or until and unless a successor has been elected and qualified. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 3 of 9 Timeline: • November: the BOD establishes a volunteer base to participate in the process. • November: call for nominations to the volunteer base. • December 31st: Nominations are closed. The BOD (acting as a nominating committee) creates a slate of officers and presents it to the BOD, Steering Committee, and select volunteers for vote on the slate of officers at the Annual Meeting. Quorum. A quorum of the Directors shall be the following: 66.6%. Regular Meetings. After their election, the Board of Directors shall commence monthly, operational meetings for the purpose of electing its new officers, appointing new committee chairpersons, and for transacting such other business as may be deemed appropriate. The Board of Directors may cancel, by resolution, regular meetings without notice other than the notice provided by the resolution. Special Meetings. Special meetings may be requested by any member of the Board of Directors. A special meeting may be requested by providing 48 hours written notice by United States mail or electronic mail with return receipt requested, effective when sent. Minutes of the meeting shall be sent to the Board of Directors within 48 hours after the meeting. A special meeting of members is not required to be held at a geographic location if the meeting is held by means of the internet or other electronic communication in a manner pursuant to which all members have the opportunity to read and/or hear the proceedings substantially concurrent with the occurrence of the proceedings, note on matters submitted to the members, pose questions, and make comments. Procedures. The vote of a majority of the Directors present at a properly called meeting as dictated by these Bylaws at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board of Directors unless the vote of a greater number is required by law or by these Bylaws for a particular resolution. A Director of the organization who is present at a meeting of the Board of Directors at which action on any matter before the BOD is taken shall be presumed to have assented to the action taken unless their dissent shall be entered in the minutes of the meeting. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 4 of 9 The Board shall keep written minutes of its proceedings as long as the content is material (generally three years). The minutes will include, at the least, names of all members present, resolutions proposed and voted upon, and any Director abstentions or objections to resolutions. Parliamentary procedure will be employed using “Robert’s Rules of Order”. Vacancies and Removals. A Director shall be subjected to removal, with or without cause, at a meeting called for that purpose. Any vacancy that occurs on the Board of Directors, whether by death, resignation, removal, or any other reason, may be filled by a majority vote of the remaining Directors. A Director elected to fill a vacancy shall serve the remaining term of their predecessor or until a successor has been elected and qualified. If all Directors resign or are removed, any Officer shall hold a special meeting for the purpose of electing a new Director or Board of Directors. If this does not occur, the Newburyport Documentary Film Festival is to be dissolved (see Article V). Resignation. If a Director wishes to resign from their directorial position, they shall do so in the following manner: • Two months written notice shall be provided allowing time to solicit nominations. • A special meeting will be scheduled to confirm a replacement. Committees. To the extent permitted by Massachusetts law, the Board of Directors may appoint from its members a committee or committees, temporary or permanent, and designate the duties, powers, and authorities of such committees. The committees shall have a specific purpose and the Board of Directors, in creating a committee, shall outline the parameters of the committee, including, but not limited to, meetings, notice, quorum requirements, and all other pertinent procedures. ARTICLE III. TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY Budget. The Board should assure that a realistic annual budget is set and that it is developed early enough that the entire board can be involved in its review and approval at the beginning of the fiscal year. Accounting. The Board should assure that the NDFF has adequate internal accounting systems and controls, and should consider requiring Board action on large or especially significant contracts or grants, and on all transactions involving real estate, borrowing, or sale/disposal of large assets. Board members should expect the treasurer to produce income/expense statement, balance sheets and/or budget status reports as required. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 5 of 9 Spending Guidelines Financial Filings. Upon request, the NDFF commits to providing copies of the most recently filed annual information returns (IRS Form 990) and the organization's application for tax-exemption correspondence between the organization and the IRS related to the application. Documentation Retention. Foundational documentation (Bylaws, Mission Statements, etc.) is kept as permanent records being amended over time as required. The reporting of our BOD will be retained for as long as the contents are material (generally three years) consistent with Massachusetts Non-profit requirements (830 CMR 62C.25.1). Documentation Disposition. Informal documentation can be scrapped and recycled. Formal documentation (policy and contract documentation, grant proposals, budget and financial statements) shall be shredded; deleted if electronic. Relationships. The NDFF utilizes practices that demonstrate accountability and respect for donors (thank-you notes, donation visibility when as requested, etc.). Before committing to spend money via signing a vendor contract, submitting an invoice, or proceeding with payment via credit card: Spending Threshold Action < $100 Contact treasurer if you have any questions; otherwise, proceed with spending. $100 to <$500 Discuss (phone, text, email) with treasurer the nature of the expense and amount to confirm spending is planned within budget. $500 and greater Discuss (phone, text, email) with treasurer the nature of the expense and amount to confirm spending is planned within budget. Seek BOD approval even if within the approved budget. Executive Director - unplanned discretionary spending Discuss (phone, text or email) with treasurer the nature of the expense, the rationale for spending. The Executive Directors can commit to a maximum of $250 in unbudgeted discretionary spending no more than four times within the fiscal year, Without seeking be BOD approval. After spending is committed: Spending threshold Action All amounts Submit invoice to treasurer for check payment; provide any related documentation. If an NDFF credit card purchase or a personal reimbursable expense, provide treasurer with all receipts and any related documentation. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 6 of 9 Conflict of Interest. The NDFF directors, officers and volunteers must recuse themselves when they have a conflict of interest regarding a transaction over which they have authority on behalf of the NDFF and are intent on preventing any business agents or volunteers from advancing their own personal interests with or against the interests of the NDFF. Procedure. • When an actual conflict of interest is found, any transactions that may have been affected will be reviewed retroactively and affected parties both within and outside the NDFF will be notified. • As all conflicts of interest will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, a review may result in disciplinary action. The Board of Directors has full discretion to deem what disciplinary action is both fitting and necessary, including removal from any NDFF position. Whistleblower Policy. The NDFF Requires directors, officers and volunteers to observe high standards of business and personal ethics in the conduct of their duties and responsibilities and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Reporting responsibility: This Whistleblower Policy is intended to enable board members and volunteers to raise serious concerns internally so that the NDFF can address inappropriate conduct. It is the responsibility of all board members, officers, and volunteers to report concerns about violations of the NDFF’s code of ethics or suspected violations of law or regulations that govern the NDFF’s operations. No Retaliation: It is contrary to the values of the NDFF for anyone to retaliate against any board member or volunteer who in good faith reports an ethics violation, or a suspected violation of law. Reporting Procedure: The NDFF has an open door policy and suggests that volunteers share their questions, concerns, suggestions or complaints in writing with the identified Compliance Officer. Compliance Officer: The NDFF’s Compliance Officer is responsible for ensuring that all complaints about unethical or illegal conduct are investigated and resolved. The Compliance Officer will advise the Board of Directors of all complaints and their resolution. Accounting and Auditing Matters: The NDFF’s Compliance Officer shall immediately notify the Board of Directors of any concerns or complaints regarding corporate accounting practices, internal controls or auditing and work with the committee until the matter is resolved. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 7 of 9 Confidentiality: Violations or suspected violations may be submitted on a confidential basis by the complainant. Reports of violations or suspected violations will be kept confidential to the extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct an adequate investigation. Handling of Reported Violations: The NDFF’s Compliance Officer will notify the person who submitted a complaint and acknowledge receipt of the reported violation or suspected violation. All reports will be promptly investigated and appropriate corrective action will be taken if warranted by the investigation. Compliance Officer: The Compliance Officer may be a board member, the Executive Director, or a third party designated by the organization to receive, investigate and respond to complaints. ARTICLE IV. AMENDING BYLAWS Amendment Procedure. The Bylaws may be amended, altered, or repealed by the Board of Directors by a majority of a quorum vote at any regular or special meeting. The full text of the proposed change shall be distributed to all board members at least fourteen (14) days before the meeting where the change is to be voted on. ARTICLE V. DISSOLUTION Dissolution Procedure. The organization may be dissolved only with the authorization of the Board of Directors given a special meeting called for that express purpose and with the subsequent approval of a supermajority (2/3rds) vote of the members. Liabilities. All liabilities and obligations shall be paid, satisfied, and discharged, or adequate provisions shall be made, therefore. Distribution of Assets. Assets not held upon a condition requiring return, transfer, or conveyance to any other organization or individual shall be distributed, transferred, or conveyed, in trust or otherwise, to a charitable and educational organization, organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, of a similar or like nature to this organization, as determined by the Board of Directors. Revision .6 February 2, 2021 8 of 9 CERTIFICATION I, ______________________, Executive Director of Newburyport Documentary Film Festival certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Bylaws of the above- named organization, duly adopted by the Initial Board of Directors on ______________. _________________________________ Executive Director I, _______________________, Secretary of Newburyport Documentary Film Festival certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of the Bylaws of the above-named organization, duly adopted by the Initial Board of Directors on ______________. _________________________________ GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

Become a Sponsor and raise your brand awareness in Newburyport's geography area. NBPT DOCU FEST Become A Sponsor FESTIVAL Submit a Film YES Film Submissions Festival Archive Award Winners PROGRAMS Events Watch Club Archive SUPPORT Donate Become a Sponsor Sponsors Volunteer Filmmaking Hosting ABOUT About Us Card To Culture Plan Your Visit Become part of the local documentary community This year's festival is a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and the power of film to enlighten, inspire and entertain. Many festival filmmakers come to Newburyport to engage directly with festival audiences, spark conversation, and share insights into the filmmaking process. This highly anticipated cultural event offers local establishments a unique opportunity to showcase their businesses to a receptive audience, with an estimated 2,000 festival attendees . As a festival sponsor, your business will generate a strong presence while supporting this valued local event. In return for your support, we offer a range of benefits tailored to meet your specific marketing objectives, including brand visibility, VIP access to festival events, and opportunities for community engagement. Festival attendees are sure to enjoy shopping and dining in town, and all that our Newburyport has to offer. NDFF SPONSORSHIP LEVELS Producer $1500 Director $1000 Crew $500 Film Sponsor $300 Any amount; all contributions make a difference! Friend of the Fest Download the PDF PRODUCER $1500 • Your logo included: • Venue signage • Website • Sponsor video for all screenings including the Preview Event • Program guide • Company description listed on website "About Our Sponsors" section • Photo with Popcorn Patty for social media • Free access to private receptions including the Preview Event (Sept 4) • Full page ad placement in the program guide • Four (4) VIP Festival Passes (includes all screenings, receptions & events) • Logo on exterior banners at multiple high-traffic locations • Promotional postings on our social media platforms • Verbal recognition before all screenings • Logo on all printed promotional materials (i.e. posters, flyers, etc.) • Acknowledgement in all press releases • Live on-stage intro before evening screening of your choice DIRECTOR $1000 • Your logo included: • Venue signage • Website • Sponsor video for all screenings, including the Preview Event • Program guide • Company description listed on the website "About Our Sponsors" section • Photo with Popcorn Patty for social media • Free access to private receptions including the Preview Event (Sept 4) • Half page ad placement in the program guide • Two (2) VIP Festival Passes (includes all screenings, receptions & events) • Logo on exterior venue banners at multiple high-traffic locations • Promotional postings on our social media platforms CREW $500 • Your logo included: • Venue signage • Website • Sponsor video for all screenings including the Preview Event • Program guide • Company description listed on the website "About Our Sponsors" section • Photo with Popcorn Patty for social media • Free access to private receptions including the Preview Event (Sept 4) • Quarter page ad placement in the program guide • One (1) VIP Festival Pass (includes all screenings, receptions & events) FILM SPONSOR $300 • Your logo included: on the Thank You "About Our Sponsors" page • Photo with Popcorn Patty for social media • Free access to private receptions including the Preview Event (Sept 4) • Featured on screen before one (1) screening of your choosing* • Two (2) individual film tickets FRIEND OF THE FEST – any amount; all contributions make a difference! YOUR NAME listed on the Donor, "FRIEND OF THE FEST" website section for the duration of the festival. To become a FRIEND OF THE FEST, make a donation in any amount. DONATE Become a Sponsor First name* Last name* Email* Business name Phone Message* Submit To avoid processing surcharges, please mail a check to Newburyport Film Festival, Inc. PO Box 526 Newburyport, MA 01950 Your continuing support in the festival helps us bring thought-provoking, and entertaining documentary films to the surrounding cultural communities. No amount is too small in keeping our programs and festival events alive. GET OUR NEWSLETTER Receive Our Latest News Join our mailing list for announcements, ticket sales, special events, monthly documentary recommendations and year-round programs. JOIN OUR MAILING LIST