IO

International Ocean Film Foundation

San Francisco, CA, United States

Environment & ClimateEducationArts & CultureTax-deductible donations
CharityFounded 2004International reach
Profile last updated: August 10, 2026

About

Founded in 2004, International Ocean Film Foundation is a charity based in San Francisco, United States working on environment & climate, education, arts & culture.

The International Ocean Film Foundation (IOFF) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in San Francisco that uses film to promote ocean literacy, education and stewardship. Its flagship event is an annual international ocean film festival, held at Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, which presents independent ocean-themed films from around the world, many of which are otherwise rarely seen by the public. The foundation runs a free education program that brings Bay Area middle and high school students to curated film screenings with filmmakers and scientists, and a traveling program that takes festival finalists to other venues. IOFF also hosts the Off the Reef Auction Benefit, which raises funds for its education programs, and an annual award honouring a leading figure in ocean conservation. Its stated aim is to be the premier global platform for ocean literacy and education through film. The festival has run since 2004 and draws audiences of all ages, including film enthusiasts, conservationists, educators and water sports fans.

Location

San Francisco, United States

Founded

2004

Organisation type

Charity

Legal form

501(c)(3)

Charity number

36-4568001

Focus areas

ocean film festivalocean literacyocean educationmarine conservationenvironmental film

Languages

EN

Causes & programmes

Causes

Environment & ClimateEducationArts & Culture

Works for

StudentsYouthCommunities

How they work

Awareness & educationCommunity programmesVolunteer programmes

Programmes

Free Student Education Program

Education · United States

Free ocean education film program for Bay Area middle and high school students, with screenings followed by Q&A sessions with filmmakers, scientists and marine experts.

IOFF Traveling Program

Arts & Culture

Brings a selection of finalists from the main film festival program to other venues.

Countries of operation

United States

Funding & support

Funded by

Individual donations

Ways to support

DonateVolunteerSponsorship

Trust

Tax-deductible donations

People

Management & team (1)

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