DC Shorts International Film Festival is a ten-day event that includes film screenings, Q&As, filmmaker workshops and parties. Founded by Jon Gann in 2003 to focus on the filmmakers with their works, the festival is open to shorts by filmmakers with any experience level to show their films and communicate with the audience. It provides filmmakers with various opportunities, including screenings, educational programs and sharing resources. It also awards Outstanding US Narrative Short, International Narrative Short, Animated Short, Documentary Short, First-Time Director, Local Film along with Audience Favorite Awards and Jury Prizes.