The Bentonville Film Festival has set the dates for its 2025 event and announced its inaugural BFF Creator Convergence: Amplifying Voices and Ventures summit.
The 2025 edition of the festival, which is produced by BFFoundation, a nonprofit organization focused on promoting underrepresented voices of diverse storytellers, will run from June 16-22 in Bentonville, Arkansas. The festival also said that submissions are now being accepted in feature, shorts and episodic categories. For more information, including the deadlines, visit the BFF website. The festival is being presented in collaboration with founding partner Walmart and presenting partner Coca-Cola.
“After a decade of championing underrepresented creatives, BFF is more committed than ever to offering storytellers from diverse backgrounds the chance to share their unique perspectives and voices,” BFF chair Geena Davis said. “We’re excited to continue fostering talent, building an empowering community, and giving these artists a platform to reach wider audiences. As the industry changes, we remain dedicated to making it more accessible to artists from all backgrounds.”
In addition, organizers announced their first BFF Creator Convergence: Amplifying Voices and Ventures, a multiday summit will bring together Walmart executives and merchants with suppliers, IP owners and agencies to explore the hottest trends in influencers, music, gaming, short form content, brand collaborations and social impact. The event will be presented in partnership with United Talent Agency and XTracks Licensing Forums.
“Bentonville has always been dedicated to fostering an inclusive space where emerging voices can thrive and make an impact,” BFFoundation president Wendy Guerrero said. “With the launch of the BFF Creator Convergence, we are expanding our reach to support creators at every stage of their journey. Whether they’re looking to license a product, promote a project in development, or pitch fresh ideas to key industry players, Bentonville is here to help them break through and elevate their careers.”