SIMA is a Global Impact Media Institute
We advance the work of visionaries at the forefront of documentary film, global education and civic engagement.
PROGRAMS
Since 2012, we’ve set new standards for impact storytelling — awarding and championing the world’s most consequential documentary films and bringing them to classrooms and communities in over 100 countries, transforming learners and leaders into agents of change.
SIMA AWARDS
The annual SIMA Awards recognize outstanding achievements in global documentary film, impact media and campaigns that stand apart in their artistry, integrity, and power to inspire change.
CINEMA ACROSS BORDERS
Our year-round fellowship and screening series brings SIMA-selected films to communities across the Global South, supporting local leadership and coalition building through film, human rights, and grassroots forums.
SIMA ACADEMY
SIMA’s award-winning education platform empowers over 160,000 students with global perspectives and media literacy skills. Our “Netflix for changemakers” serves organizations and academic institutions in 100+ countries.
FISCAL SPONSORSHIP
Raise tax-deductible funds in the U.S. at any stage of production, exhibition, or campaign. SIMA’s fiscal sponsorship is open year-round to producers, artists, technologists, and creators worldwide.
2026 WINNERS ANNOUNCED
CELEBRATING GLOBAL IMPACT CINEMA OF EXCELLENCE
The winners of the 14th Annual Social Impact Media Awards (SIMA) center authentic global narratives rooted in lived experience. Through intimate and unflinching portraits of humanity, these works demonstrate that with nonfiction storytelling of this caliber, impact isn’t aspirational—it’s inevitable. Congratulations to the filmmakers and creators.
NEWS
CINEMA ACROSS BORDERS
Follow the latest edition of Cinema Across Borders — now screening across Africa, Asia, and the Americas through our network of local fellows.
UPCOMING SCREENINGS
West Africa
Upcoming screenings in Nigeria: Ebonyi, Anambra, Delta, Calabar, Lagos, Zaria, Nasarawa, Sokoto, Benue; and Liberia: Montserrado, Margibi.
Southern & East Africa
Screenings spanning Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, and South Africa: Johannesburg, Cape Town, Bloemfontein, East London, and Makhanda.
Asia + The Americas
Screening events in South America: Colombia; Central America: Honduras and Guatemala; and Asia: Sri Lanka.
FISCAL SPONSORSHIP
ELEVATE YOUR CREATIVE IMPACT
Join a global network of filmmakers, artists, and creative producers raising funds for work that matters.
IMPACT
Each year, our programs engage filmmakers, students, and communities across 140+ countries — reaching over 5 million viewers worldwide. SIMA’s Fiscal Sponsorship program supports impact projects in 50+ countries, helping to realize the vision of over 100 creative changemakers.
