Be Part of the Story

🎬 Support Local Voices. Invest in Future Filmmakers.

The Desert Empire Filmmaker Foundation (DEFF) is on a mission to empower storytellers in the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley—regions rich with creativity but historically underserved in film industry resources. By donating to DEFF, you help provide local filmmakers with access to equipment, mentorship, workshops, and community support.

Whether you're a fellow creative, a local business, or simply someone who believes in the power of storytelling, your contribution fuels a movement to make filmmaking accessible, equitable, and community-driven.

Desert Empire Filmmaker Foundation is a Fiscal Sponsored Program by Arts Connection, The Arts Council of San Bernardino County. (501(c)(3) - Tax ID # 46-3088038)

Why give?

  • 🎥 Support Local Filmmakers

    Your donation directly funds projects by emerging storytellers from the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley.

  • 🌎 Create Regional Opportunity

    Help level the playing field for creatives who lack access to L.A.-based resources and industry connections.

  • 🧰 Provide Equipment & Tools

    Help us supply filmmakers with cameras, software, and production gear they need to bring their visions to life.

  • 🤝 Build a Sustainable Creative Economy

    Your contribution helps create jobs, stimulate local production, and inspire long-term growth in the arts.

  • 📚 Fuel Education & Mentorship

    Donations support hands-on workshops, panels, and programs that teach real-world filmmaking skills.

  • 🏆 Invest in Representation

    Back stories that reflect the rich culture, diversity, and lived experiences of our communities.

Partner with us

At Desert Empire Filmmaker Foundation, we believe that storytelling is strongest when it reflects the heart of its community. That’s why we’re committed to building meaningful relationships with local businesses, organizations, and community leaders throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley.

We aim to collaborate with businesses who share our vision of empowering creativity, and we welcome opportunities to showcase local spaces, services, and talents through our projects and events. In-kind donations — such as venue space, equipment, food & beverages, or professional services — play a crucial role in supporting our filmmakers and keeping our programs accessible to everyone.

By partnering with community leaders and generous local businesses, we ensure our programs remain rooted in the needs and aspirations of the people we serve. Together, we can strengthen our region’s creative economy, support emerging filmmakers, and celebrate the diversity and richness of our stories — frame by frame.

If you’re a business owner or community leader interested in collaborating — whether through sponsorship, in-kind donations, or creative partnership — we’d love to hear from you!