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CSIFF '26 NOW ACCEPTING SUBMISSIONS
Entering its 4th year, Conch Shell International Film Fest (CSIFF) will be presented in New York City in partnership with York College Performing and Fine Arts Department.
CSIFF ‘26 is a competitive festival featuring short films written by indie and student Caribbean and Caribbean Diaspora talent, as well as established filmmakers. Films invited to participate in the 2026 Conch Shell International Film Fest will be shown in a time slot determined appropriate by Festival organizers.
SUBMISSION CATEGORIES
SHORT FILMS
Eligible projects include short films (runtime < 30 minutes) in documentary, narrative, animation, experimental, and pilot genres.
OUR MISSION
The Conch Shell International Film Fest was founded by Magaly Colimon-Christopher, the artistic director of Conch Shell Productions, Inc., a non-profit arts organization whose mission is to enlighten American audiences about the diverse, emerging Caribbean heritage voices in theater and film by developing, producing, and presenting new works.
Conch Shell International Film Fest welcomes Caribbean heritage filmmakers who are passionate about effecting social change and entertaining audiences.
The festival takes pride in helping filmmakers find their audience by helping them build connections with their Caribbean and Caribbean diaspora peers, sponsors, and film producers, as well as diverse American industry professionals who can help advance the filmmaker's career.
All selected filmmakers receive VIP passes that allow entry into all festival events.
Our festival events include: Opening Night, Closing Night, special screening events, panel discussions, workshops, artist chats, and afterparties.
Whether you are new to the industry with your first film or a filmmaker with several films under your belt, our mission is to help you get more exposure and media attention, reach larger audiences, and meet other industry professionals who can help further your career. Every filmmaker is given a post-screening Q&A and a chance to interact with attendees and attending industry professionals.
CSIFF'26 is seeking films that explore the following themes:
migration, separation, belonging, generational memory, and resilience.
Submission deadline dates include:
Early bird: March 27th, 2026
Regular: July 1st, 2026
Late: July 31st, 2026
🎥 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!
Early Bird Submission Fees WAIVED
for
New Wave Student Creators (graduate/undergraduate filmmakers)
Notification date: September 14th
FESTIVAL DATE: NOVEMBER 5-8, 2026
To submit your films, go to FilmFreeway
New in 2026: Youth Filmmaker Showcase
CSIFF 2026 will feature a Youth Filmmaker Showcase
The first time ever, CSIFF 2026 will feature a Youth Filmmaker Showcase, spotlighting the voices of the next generation of storytellers.
🎥 FREE Early Bird Submission Fees youth filmmakers
This new initiative reflects our commitment to access, mentorship, and artistic growth, ensuring that emerging Caribbean storytellers have space to be seen and celebrated at every stage of their journey.
We are now accepting submissions from young filmmakers ages 12–18. Selected films will be presented in a special showcase screening as part of the festival.