Sponsorship funds, donations, grants, and in-kind support shall be used for approved educational, cultural, accessibility, film-related, and other mission-related purposes.

All support shall be administered in accordance with the Corporation’s governing documents, financial policies, applicable law, and any lawful restrictions accepted by the Corporation. Restricted funds shall be identified and used solely for their designated purposes.

The Board of Directors shall retain ultimate authority over the acceptance of support. The Board may delegate acceptance and signing authority to designated officers, committees, employees, or agents through a written policy or resolution establishing the scope and limits of that authority.

Any arrangement involving donor restrictions, naming rights, exclusivity, material obligations, unusual financial or legal risk, or an actual or potential conflict of interest shall be reviewed in accordance with Corporation policy. Any arrangement that imposes obligations upon IDFA or promises specific benefits to a supporter shall be documented in writing and signed by an authorized representative.

The Corporation may establish and recognize categories of sponsors and supporters, including:

1. Corporate Sponsors. Corporations and other business entities that provide financial assistance, professional services, goods, or other resources.
2. Individual Sponsors. Individuals who provide financial contributions, services, or other assistance.
3. Event Sponsors. Individuals or organizations that support IDFA film festivals, the O-Deaf Awards, award ceremonies, conferences, cultural programs, or related events.
4. Supporting Contributors. Individuals or organizations that contribute to advancing Deaf cinema, Deaf culture, accessible filmmaking, or inclusive cultural programs.
5. In-Kind Sponsors. Individuals or organizations that provide venues, production equipment, lodging, transportation, food, technology, professional services, or other goods or services.
6. International Sponsors. Individuals, businesses, organizations, or institutions that support the Corporation’s programs and activities in one or more countries.

These categories are descriptive and may overlap. Recognition as a sponsor, supporter, or Supporting Contributor shall not create membership, voting, governance, ownership, or other organizational rights.

The International Deaf Film Association (“IDFA” or the “Corporation”) may solicit, accept, or decline lawful sponsorships, contributions, donations, grants, professional services, in-kind assistance, and other forms of support from individuals, corporations, businesses, nonprofit organizations, foundations, governmental agencies, and other institutions.

All support shall further the Corporation’s mission and shall be consistent with its governing documents, policies, and applicable law.