ASIFA-Hollywood has launched its inaugural Annie Awards Qualifying Festival List–an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate film festivals around the world that champion the art of animation. The list will spotlight festivals around the globe that have demonstrated meaningful impact, artistic excellence, and a sustained commitment to advancing both the art and industry of animation.
“We’re seeking festivals that are not only respected by their peers but also serve as influential voices within the animation community,” said ASIFA-Hollywood executive director Aubry Mintz. “The top prize winners at these festivals will be allowed to submit their work to corresponding Annie categories with no submission fee.”
Annie-qualifying festivals will also gain access to special partnership opportunities with ASIFA-Hollywood, including cross-promotional support, collaboration on programming, and participation in jury selection–strengthening connections across the global animation landscape.
ASIFA-Hollywood is committed to supporting emerging festivals that show strong potential but may not yet be fully established. Select festivals may receive guidance through sponsorship, programming support, jury participation, and promotional efforts to help elevate their visibility and growth.
“As we build this network, it’s essential that ASIFA-Hollywood remains connected to the festivals shaping animation worldwide,” added the Festival Committee chair, Charles Solomon. “We look forward to expanding this list and fostering lasting relationships across the community.”
The committee will review submissions and update its list on an annual basis. Animation festivals interested in being considered for qualification are encouraged to apply here.
ASIFA-Hollywood looks forward to discovering and collaborating with the next wave of animation festivals around the globe.
The 2026 Annies Qualifying festivals are:
–Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Annecy, France
–Ottawa International Animation Festival | Ottawa, Canada
–Kaboom Animation Festival, Amsterdam, Netherlands
–ANIMAFEST ZAGREB, Zagreb, Croatia
–Animation is Film, California, USA
–Animayo International Film Festival, Gran Canaria, Spain
–Fantoche International Animation Film Festival, Baden, Switzerland
