SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Nonprofits Association (UNA) is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Utah Nonprofit Film Festival. Applications are open now through June 2. Twelve nonprofits will be selected to receive $10,000 each in in-kind film production services, totaling $120,000.
The event is a first-of-its-kind initiative and will take place on Monday, November 10, 2025, at The Leonardo in Salt Lake City. The program is designed to amplify nonprofit voices, elevate storytelling, and inspire new donor engagement across the state. With rapid changes to federal grants and uncertainty around the future of funding, UNA seeks to close the gap between impactful organizations and the next generation of donors.
Now open for applications, the Utah Nonprofit Film Festival will provide selected nonprofits with an in-kind grant opportunity and pair participants with professional filmmakers to create short, compelling films that showcase their organization’s mission and impact. Participants will also receive expert-led training in hope-centered storytelling and strategic donor communications.
“This is more than a film festival,” said Jill Bennett, CEO of Utah Nonprofits Association. “It’s a tribute to the nonprofits that show up every day to feed, shelter, heal, and uplift our neighbors. These stories remind us of the compassion and resilience at the heart of our communities. By sharing them, we hope to deepen understanding, strengthen support, and celebrate the people making Utah a better place for all.”
UNA is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations and local filmmakers now through June 2, 2025. Twelve nonprofits will be selected through a competitive process, grouped into cause-area teams, and matched with professional filmmakers. The resulting short films will debut at the public festival premiere, which will welcome donors and community members to view the films and build relationships with participating nonprofits.
“This initiative fills a real need in our sector,” added Kabi Catalano, UNA’s Vice President of Nonprofit Engagement and Strategic Initiatives. “Nonprofits are doing incredible work, but often lack the time and tools to share their impact. Meanwhile, new donors are ready to give—but don’t always know where to look. This festival will bridge that gap in a powerful and exciting way.”
UNA encourages nonprofit leaders, filmmakers, donors, and community members to get involved.
Nonprofit Application: Apply by June 2
Filmmaker RFP: Submit a Proposal
Sponsorship Opportunities: Support the Utah Nonprofit Film Festival
Visit the Event Page: Learn More and Sign Up for Updates
The Utah Nonprofit Film Festival is made possible thanks to generous sponsors and community partners. Sponsorship opportunities are still available to help support training, production, and event programming.
About UNA: Utah Nonprofits Association is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a mission to unify, strengthen, and elevate Utah’s nonprofits. Learn more at: www.utahnonprofits.org.
Media Contact:
Kabi Catalano
VP of Nonprofit Engagement and Strategic Initiatives
Utah Nonprofits Association
801-596-1800 x6