NEA Cancels Funding for HIFF
This past weekend, we received troubling news that HIFF’s funding from the National Endowment for the Arts has been canceled as a result of the current administration’s agenda – a situation affecting numerous arts organizations across the country. In addition to the NEA, HIFF has also recently lost other funding sources tied to these federal changes, resulting in a 20% budget deficit for 2025. These shifting policies threaten the success of independent cinema, film festivals, community spaces, and the existence of the NEA itself.
This sudden loss of funding presents a significant challenge for HIFF. Nevertheless, we remain committed to moving forward with our Fall Festival, free educational programs for students throughout Hawaiʻi, industry initiatives to support emerging creatives and underrepresented voices, and free year-round community screenings. Through these programs, we will in no way change or compromise our mission to bring the best in international cinema to the people of Hawai‘i, to advance cultural exchange, and to uplift and provide opportunities for Hawai‘i’s creatives to produce, network, and collaborate.
If you value the services that HIFF provides as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization and its role as a vital platform to elevate film and filmmakers in Hawai‘i, here are ways you can support:
- Donate: Make a tax-deductible donation to provide crucial operating support.
- Become a Member or Join HIFF’s Producer’s Circle: Annual membership comes with exclusive access to private screenings. Producer’s Circle Membership includes high-level benefits and recognition at HIFF’s premier events.
- Sponsorship: Cash or in-kind services in exchange for premium branding opportunities to reach HIFF’s annual audience of over 40,000.
- Attend: Save the date for the Fall Festival (Oct 16-26 in Honolulu), and look out for passes, which are set to go on sale by the end of the month.
- Share: Spread the word about HIFF and other impacted arts programs, and urge your elected representatives to support funding for the arts.
All of us at HIFF are grateful for the continued support of our community during these uncertain times. We know we are not alone – and that together, our collective voices are powerful.
Me ka mahalo piha,
