About NCFI

The North Carolina Filmmaking Initiative is a nonprofit focusing on independent film in NC.

A Home for Storytellers. A Movement for North Carolina.

The North Carolina Filmmaking Initiative (NCFI) was created to awaken, nurture, and elevate the cinematic dreams of storytellers across our state—from the mountains to the coast, from backyards to big screens.

Founded by filmmaker and visionary entrepreneur Michael I. Washington, NCFI is a nonprofit built to fill the gap left by traditional institutions—too often underfunded, inaccessible, or out of touch with the communities they claim to serve.

We’re building something different: a creator-led, grassroots filmmaking ecosystem that keeps talent rooted in North Carolina and gives them everything they need to rise.

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Our Mission

We believe North Carolina is home to some of the most powerful untold stories in the world—and those stories deserve the resources, respect, and reach to be fully realized.

Our mission is simple but bold:
To build a sustainable, creator-first film economy across North Carolina.

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What We Do

We support filmmakers and creatives across the state through four core pillars:

🎓 Education & Mentorship

Hands-on labs, workshops, fellowships, and career support for students and emerging artists.

🏗️ Infrastructure & Access

We’re developing studio spaces, post-production hubs, and co-working labs in cities like Durham, Charlotte, and Wilmington.

💰 Funding & Capital

Microgrants, special-purpose vehicles (SPVs), equity investment, and access to financing for NC-based projects.

📽️ Exhibition & Celebration

We showcase local films through our “NCFI Presents” screenings and support premiere events like the Argyle Film Festival.

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Why We Exist

Because the next generation of filmmakers shouldn’t have to leave their home to be seen, supported, or successful.
Because storytelling is economic development.
Because the South is not a footnote—it’s a front page.
Because cinema belongs to everyone.

We’re not just making movies. We’re building a movement.

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Who We Serve

• Independent filmmakers based in or connected to North Carolina
• Students and educators pursuing careers in media
• Local governments, nonprofits, and universities
• Donors, investors, and partners who believe in the power of story