About Points north institute
Points North Institute: A Launching Pad for Nonfiction Storytellers
Points North Institute is a non-profit organization that serves as a launching pad for the next generation of nonfiction storytellers. The institute supports documentary filmmakers, journalists, media artists, and Maine communities by providing them with resources and opportunities to create impactful stories that inspire change.
Founded in 2015, Points North Institute has quickly become a leading force in the world of nonfiction storytelling. The institute hosts several programs throughout the year that bring together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences to celebrate and support the art of documentary filmmaking.
One of the institute's flagship programs is the Camden International Film Festival (CIFF), which takes place annually in September. CIFF showcases over 80 documentary films from around the world and attracts thousands of visitors to Maine each year. In addition to film screenings, CIFF also features panel discussions, workshops, and networking events that provide filmmakers with valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals.
Another program offered by Points North Institute is their Artist Programs. These programs provide emerging artists with mentorship opportunities, funding support, and access to resources needed to develop their projects into impactful works of art. The Artist Programs include:
- Points North Fellowship: This program provides six selected fellows with a $3k grant each along with travel expenses covered so they can attend CIFF where they will receive mentorship from industry leaders.
- Shortform Editing Residency: This residency offers two selected artists an opportunity for one-on-one editing sessions on their short-form projects.
- Documentary Editing Residency: This residency offers one artist an opportunity for one-on-one editing sessions on their feature-length project.
- Pitch Black Forum: This forum provides selected filmmakers an opportunity to pitch their projects directly to funders at CIFF.
Points North Institute also partners with local organizations in Maine communities through its Community Partnerships Program. Through this program they offer free screenings followed by discussions, workshops, and other events that engage the community in important conversations around social issues.
In addition to these programs, Points North Institute also offers a variety of resources for filmmakers and artists. These include:
- Workshops: Points North Institute hosts workshops throughout the year on topics such as grant writing, distribution strategies, and impact producing.
- Industry Database: The institute maintains a database of industry professionals that filmmakers can use to connect with potential collaborators or funders.
- Fiscal Sponsorship: Points North Institute offers fiscal sponsorship to selected projects which allows them to receive tax-deductible donations from individuals or organizations.
Points North Institute is committed to supporting nonfiction storytellers who are creating work that has the power to inspire change. Through its various programs and resources, the institute is helping emerging artists develop their craft while also building a community of engaged audiences who are passionate about documentary filmmaking.
In conclusion, if you're an emerging nonfiction storyteller looking for support in developing your craft or an audience member interested in engaging with impactful stories from around the world then Points North Institute is definitely worth checking out. With its commitment to supporting artists and communities alike through its various programs and resources it's no wonder why it has quickly become a leading force in the world of nonfiction storytelling.