FAQS

What is Buyer Accreditation?

Buyer Accreditation is the process of determining whether or not a company is a Buyer according to the AFM’s definition. AFM defines a Buyer as one of the following:

  • A company which has contracted with one or more members of the Independent Film & Television Alliance (IFTA) to distribute in at least one audio-visual medium, at least three motion pictures or television programs during the last three years.
  • A company which has contracted with one or more members of IFTA for such company to sub-distribute (i.e. re-license) in at least one audio-visual medium at least three motion pictures or television programs during the last three years.
Who may register as a Buyer?

Only pre-accredited Buyers may register for a Buyer Badge.

Is Buyer Accreditation the same as registering for the AFM?

No. Buyer Accreditation is a process that must take place before registering as a Buyer for the AFM.

What do Buyer Badges give access to?

Buyer Badges permit access to Buyer & IFTA Member Lounge, Exhibitor Floors, most Market Screenings, LocationEXPO, and Innovation Hub.

If I am accredited, do I need to apply next year?

No. As long as the company is an active Buyer, accreditation is maintained and it applies to all current employees of the company.

How much is a Buyer Badge?

Please visit Buyer Registration.

When is the deadline for Buyer Accreditation?

All accreditation requests must be submitted by October 16, 2026. No accreditations will be done during the AFM.

Should I attend for five, four or three days?
More days equals more opportunities and more connections. If you are pitching a project or script, Wednesday through Saturday are the most effective days for exploratory conversations with distributors and sales companies (Exhibitors.). More recommendations can be found in How to Work the AFM.
Can I choose the days I want to attend with a Four Day or Three Day badge?
Unfortunately no. Four Day Badges provide access Wednesday – Saturday and Three Day Badges Thursday – Saturday.
What do Attendee Badges give access to?

Please visit Attendee Badges for details.

What are the different types of Attendee Badges and what do they cost?

Please visit the Attendee Badge page for details.

Can I access the Buyers Lounge?
No. The Buyers lounge is only for Accredited Buyers and IFTA Member Exhibitors.

How do I connect with sales companies to represent my film or project?

AFM is a great place to find partners for projects and films – if you have a plan. Read How to Work the AFM and use these steps to increase your chances of success.
Where is the AFM held?
AFM26 will be held in Los Angeles, CA. The Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City is the AFM headquarters. Screenings will take place at the AMC Century City 15.

When is the AFM?

November 10-15, 2026
Is the AFM a film festival?
The AFM is a marketplace where producers and distributors license films. The AFM is not a festival – there are no competitions or prizes.
Can anyone attend the AFM?
Yes. Please see How to Register under Attendee and Buyer resources for more information.
When can I register?

Buyers and Attendees may register in advance or on-site. Pre-register for discounts and convenience. Subscribe to AFM News for updates on programs, speakers and deadlines.

What about hotel accommodations?
The AFM offers discounted rates at official AFM Hotels for Registered Participants. Reservations must be made through the AFM. Hotel reservations are only accepted with a corresponding badge order. Check the Travel Resources page for more details.
Where can I find the Participant List / Exhibitor List / Buyer List?
See Exhibitor List for companies with offices and/or Meeting Tables. The AFM Participant list is available at Cinando.com. The AFM Buyers List is an exclusive benefit for AFM Exhibitors.
Where do I Park?

Visit the Travel Resources page for details. 

What are the Exhibiting options for Sales and Production Companies?
Visit Sales & Production Companies.
What are the Exhibiting options for Film Commissions, Facilities and Services?
Visit Film Commissions, Facilities & Services.
What does exhibition space look like?
The AFM is held in a hotel and the rooms are set-up as offices. The offices are to be used for exhibiting only – there is no sleeping in the offices.
Are there advertising opportunities available to exhibitors?
Yes. Visit AFM Partnership Opportunities for more information.
Where is the screening schedule posted?
Once it is available, the AFM screening schedule can be viewed at TheFilmCatalogue.com.
Who can attend Screenings?
Most screenings are open to anyone with an AFM Badge. (Press is excluded).
How can I screen my film at AFM?
Most AFM Participants may screen their films in AFM Theaters.  Screening fees and some restrictions apply. See Screenings for details.
I’m an accredited Buyer, why can’t I see the buyer rates?
Sometimes the registration system encounters a problem with verifying that a company is an approved Buyer. If this occurs, contact our registration department at Registration@ifta-online.org or 1-310-446-1082.
How do I register if I can’t access online registration?

Accredited Buyers can request an order form by emailing Registration@ifta-online.org.

Attendees can download and print the Industry Attendee Order Forms from the registration page once registration is open. 

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