About IDA

Founded in 1982, the International Documentary Association (IDA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that promotes nonfiction filmmakers, and is dedicated to increasing public awareness for the documentary genre. At IDA, we believe that the power and artistry of the documentary art form are vital to cultures and societies globally, and we exist to serve the needs of those who create this art form. Our major program areas are: Advocacy, Filmmaker Services, Education, and Public Programs and Events.

ADVOCACY

At IDA, we help advocate for, protect and advance the legal rights of documentary filmmakers. IDA also has a long history of making the case for documentary filmmaking as a vital art form, and we continue to seek ways to ensure that the artists who make documentaries receive the funding that they deserve. Most recently, IDA has been in the forefront of support on these major issues confronting our industry: Net Neutrality, Fair Use, and Lobbying for the Arts. Read the letter from former IDA Board President.

FILMMAKER SERVICES

IDA provides the essential services, tools and information required by documentarians to successfully engage in their art. Filmmaker services include:

• IDA Membership – provides members with valuable benefits and opportunities
• Fiscal Sponsorship – allows documentary films in production to receive donations and grants
• Pare Lorentz Documentary Fund – annual production grants totaling $75,000 supporting independentdocumentary films that illuminate pressing issues in the United States.
• Documentary magazine – a quarterly publication that offers essential information and keeps readers on track with the industry
• Documentary.org – a vital portal into the industry that provides up-to-date information and opportunities to connect with the documentary film world

EDUCATION

Docs Rock is a two-semester program that introduces high school students to the world of documentary filmmaking. The first semester focuses on critical viewing and analyses of nonfiction films, and during the second semester the students apply their new knowledge and produce their very own documentary. Read more »

Doc U is a series of hands-on educational seminars and workshops for aspiring and experienced documentary filmmakers, taught by artists and industry experts. Participants receive vital training and insight on various topics including fundraising; distribution; marketing; business tactics; and much more. Read more »

PUBLIC PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

IDA Documentary Awards is an annual event that recognizes and honors outstanding documentary films and filmmakers. Hosted by the IDA's Board of Directors and Trustees, the awards ceremony recognizes significant achievements in documentary filmmaking in several categories, including: Career Achievement Award, Pioneer Award, and Music Documentary Award.

DocuWeeks™ presents short and feature length documentaries to appreciative audiences in theatrical runs designed to qualify the films for consideration for the Academy Awards®. Since its debut in 1997, 17 worthy documentaries have gone to be nominated for the Oscar® and 7 have won the coveted award. DocuWeeks™ screenings take place annually in New York City and Los Angeles.

DocuDay is IDA's annual screening of the year's best documentary films, Oscar® nominated shorts and features and Independent Spirit Award winners. This event increases public awareness and appreciation for non-fiction films, and takes place in both New York City and Los Angeles.

INTERNSHIPS AT IDA

Interning at IDA is a great way to support the organization, build your project management skills, and get access to leading documentary films and filmmakers. IDA Interns support the Programs and Events Department in producing Doc U, DocuWeeks, the IDA Awards, and DocuDay. As an IDA Intern, you’ll attend IDA events, learn production management basics, get face (or at least phone!) time with your favorite doc filmmakers, all in a supportive (although hard working and sometimes demanding) work environment, where you’ll apply and grow your editing, social media, coordinating, and design skills. Read more »

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