Young Illinois filmmakers have an exciting opportunity to showcase their talent through the Illinois Film Office’s Shortcuts Short Film Contest. Open to residents and students aged 22 and under, winning entries receive a $250 prize and a screening at Rockford’s 815HORTS festival, scheduled for November 2025. Submissions close August 31, 2025, and all entries will automatically be considered for the festival lineup. This initiative, supported by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, highlights Illinois’s ongoing commitment to growing its film industry through incentives and training programs. Details and submission guidelines can be found at 815horts.com.
“DCEO’s Illinois Film Office continues to serve as an integral partner for the 815HORTS festival,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “I encourage eligible filmmakers throughout the state to submit their short films to the Shortcuts contest for their chance to be featured on the big screen as part of Illinois’ world-class film industry.”
“We’re so grateful to the Illinois Film Office for its continued partnership with 815HORTS and our film program in Rockford,” said Nicholas Povalitis, founder, Plus Seven company and program director, 815HORTS. “With the return of Shortcuts and its integration into 815HORTS, we are now able to improve on one of our most important festival goals – reaching the many aspiring and talented student filmmakers throughout the state. It’s an honor to help IFO uplift young filmmakers and we’re thankful for this opportunity.”
