Submissions for 2026 will be open Jan 1st.
Shorts released from Sep. 1st, '25 through Aug. 31st, '26 will be eligible

A unique event...

...and possibly the first of its kind!

We award budding artists & teams who've achieved high quality audio editing & mixing in their films & videos. When you want to make a difference, go to the source, right?

Cash awards up to $250 USD, gifts & more

Run by Professionals

Detailed feedback, technical advice

A nonprofit organization

Full awards details are here.

Top 5 Entrant Criteria

Individuals of any age may enter. Those under 18 must provide proof of signed consent from a parent or guardian.

Entries must be under 15 minutes in total run time, including all opening titles, closing credits & slides.

Entries must be an all-original story, whether a stand-alone show, a pilot or an episode from a series.

Entries must be free of extreme violence, sexuality or nudity, hate speech, racism, genderism, bigotry, drug use, etc., influenced by the MPAA's 'PG-13' rating.

Entries with content of any kind generated by artificial intelligence will be disqualified.

Rules & eligibility info is here.

2026: OUR THIRD YEAR!!!
Starting small, aiming BIG.

2025 Winners Are...

ANIMATION

1st PRIZE

Deep Rooted (GBR)

2nd PRIZE

The Largest Lord (GBR)

3rd PRIZE

TACHY (BEL)

LIVE ACTION

1st PRIZE

Wake-Up Call (CAN)

2nd PRIZE

Elevator Pitch (USA)

3rd PRIZE

Out Cast (USA)

DONATIONS
SFAA's cash awards & operating costs are largely supported by gracious public fundraising through platforms such as these:

Testimonials

The SFAA shines a light on one of the unsung heroes of the film production process. Audio is such a vital component in storytelling, shaping the emotional ebb and flow of a film. Often overlooked, this element can easily make or break a project and, when done well, it deserves to be celebrated! Thank you to the SFAA for a wonderful festival experience and for the insightful feedback they provided.
Audio makes or breaks a film, and is the difference from a good film to a great film. SFAA takes one of the unsung aspects of filmmaking and puts it directly in the spotlight. By giving smaller creators of all ages the ability to put their talents on display, SFAA encourages filmmakers to push their skills to higher levels.
Participating in the SFAA was a truly rewarding experience. I'm grateful for the constructive and professional feedback I received, which will help me grow as a creator. This competition is a wonderful initiative that highlights the power of sound in storytelling. Thank you for this inspiring opportunity.
We love seeing SFAA giving smaller dedicated creators a chance to shine in the audio department. A department which is usually overlooked yet very important. Keep empowering and looking forward to next year's contest circuit.

Promo Partners

"Celebrating audio production excellence in student & indie films & videos."
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