Northern Stars Program

For more than 25 years, our festival has been a place where filmmakers, audiences, and community come together through the power of storytelling. By becoming a GIFF Northern Stars Donor, you help ensure that independent film continues to thrive in Manitoba and beyond.

Your support helps artists share bold and diverse stories while creating meaningful cultural experiences in rural Manitoba. From emerging filmmakers taking their first steps in the industry to internationally acclaimed artists returning to our shores year after year, GIFF is a place where creativity, connection, and opportunity come to life. Together, we are building a vibrant and accessible film community that celebrates Manitoba’s unique voice, landscape, and spirit on both a local and global stage.

We at GIFF are proud to provide all filmmakers with fair pay for their art.

Your funds go directly to:

  • Bursary Program: which supports filmmakers in marginalized communities by providing free passes to remove barriers for access.

  • Young Filmmakers Program: which gives high school film students the opportunity to receive free passes to the festival and have networking opportunities.

  • Artists fees and awards: We ensure all artists are paid a fair wage to screen and speak at our festival. GIFF also provides a variety of awards which sometimes have a financial benefit.

As a Star donor, you will receive:

  • A charitable tax receipt for the year the gift was received.

  •  Acknowledgement on our website (and on screen) as one of our STARS!

  • Meaningful contribution to film and media artists advancement through GIFF’s various series, sessions, and initatives.

  • $750 +

    Donald K.Johnson, Janis Johnson, Rob Rowan, Jennifer Loewen

  • $500 - $749

    Cindy Sylvester

  • $250-$499

    Amanda Leuschen & Jennifer Lyons,

  • $100-$249

    Ryley Livingston,