Winners will have their work showcased on a brand-new streaming channel
Tampa, FL (January 21, 2026) – Film Florida, the chief professional development organization for Florida’s Screen Production Industry, is calling for applicants to a new filmmaking competition. The Film Florida TV Student Film Competition is open to high school and college students, with 11 awards up for grabs. Winning films will be spotlighted on a dedicated channel of Film Florida’s new streaming service, Film Florida TV.
“We are excited to give more opportunities and avenues to student content creators to showcase the creative work,” says Sandy Lighterman, the Broward County Film Commissioner and President of Film Florida.
Participating students will have from March 6th to 16th to create their five-minute short films. The 10-day competition will be an action-packed whirlwind of writing, shooting, and editing with a Florida twist. Each team will receive a Florida-themed creative prompt, a required line of dialogue, and a prop. It’s up to them to bring the story to life in their own unique way.
To be eligible for the competition, students must be currently enrolled in a Florida-based high school or college. Films must be shot entirely within the state of Florida, and submissions must be completed within the 10-day challenge window. Applicants must submit their notice of participation by February 20, 2026, and all projects must be submitted by March 16, 2026, to qualify at filmfreeway.com/FilmFloridaTVShowcase
Outstanding student work will be celebrated with awards recognizing creativity, craft, and storytelling excellence, with honors presented separately for high school and college filmmakers. The following categories include Best High School Student Film, Best College Student Film, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Screenplay, and Best Cinematography.
In addition, one exceptional team will win the Audience Choice Award, selected by viewers across Film Florida TV, celebrating the film that connects most strongly with audiences.
This film challenge is about creativity, collaboration, and capturing the spirit of Florida—from its people and places to its energy, beauty, and surprises. Whether you’re a first-time filmmaker or a seasoned student creator, this is your chance to tell a story, meet a real-world deadline, and have your work streamed as part of Film Florida TV’s official launch.
To submit a notice of participation, visit: https://filmfreeway.com/FilmFloridaTVShowcase
Film Florida Competition contact: Tyler Martinolich at tmartinolich@visittampabay.com
© 2025 Tampa Hillsborough Film and Digital Media Commission