1. Privacy Policy for Hollywood North International Film Festival (HNIFF)

The Hollywood North International Film Festival ("HNIFF") is deeply committed to respecting and protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your personal information, the measures we take to protect it, and how you can contact us with any questions or concerns.

2. Protecting Your Information

We do not sell, rent, share, or exchange your personal information with third parties without your explicit consent, unless required by law.

3. About HNIFF

HNIFF is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. We operate an annual film festival celebrating excellence in Canadian and international cinema, as well as hosting year-round programming including screenings, workshops, and industry events. Our headquarters is located in Vancouver, BC. We are funded through ticket sales, sponsorships, grants, and private donations.

4. Our Commitment to Your Privacy

We are transparent about how we use your information. We respect your preferences about communication. We collect and use your data fairly and only for appropriate purposes. We share your information only with your consent or when required for essential services. We are committed to safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring strict confidentiality. Our staff, partners, and volunteers are trained to uphold these principles.

5. Why We Collect Personal Information

We may collect your information to: Process ticket purchases, submissions, memberships, and donations. Issue receipts for donations as required by Canada Revenue Agency. Maintain your relationship with HNIFF and tailor communications based on your interests. Keep you informed about events, schedule changes, or special offers. Support your participation in our programs, contests, or events.

6. What We Collect

We collect information directly from you when you: Purchase tickets, memberships, or merchandise Submit films or applications Donate to HNIFF Subscribe to our newsletters RSVP to free events Volunteer or apply for industry programs Collected information may include: Name, address, phone number, email Payment details (securely processed) Communication preferences Program participation information We may also use cookies and tracking tools to enhance your experience on our website.

7. Cookies and Website Tracking

HNIFF’s website uses cookies to improve user experience. Cookies allow us to: Understand how users interact with our website Remember your preferences for future visits Help us tailor our communications You can control cookies through your browser settings. Declining cookies may limit some site functionality.

8. Social Media Interaction

We use social media platforms to engage with audiences, share news, and promote events. Occasionally, we may share your public posts related to our festival. Advertisements you see on social media may be based on previous interactions with us.

9. Submissions, Volunteering, and Applications

When submitting a film, applying to programs, or volunteering, we may request additional personal details including: Past experience, skills, education Demographic information (such as ethnicity or gender, where relevant and consented) Special needs or accommodations Sensitive data is collected only with your consent and is treated with enhanced protection.

10. Photography and Video at Events

Please be aware that HNIFF events may be recorded or photographed for promotional purposes. By attending an event, you consent to the use of your image unless you notify the photographer or a staff member on-site.

11. CCTV Surveillance

For your safety, CCTV cameras may operate at some HNIFF venues during the festival and year-round activities.

12. How We Use Your Information

We use your data to: Fulfill your purchases and transactions Communicate important event updates Send newsletters and marketing (with your consent) Analyze and improve our services Support our festival’s operations as a non-profit organization

13. Sharing Your Data

We share your information only: With third-party service providers who support ticketing, donations, email communications, or event management (under strict agreements) When legally required When you have consented, such as opting into a partner organization's mailing list We may anonymize and aggregate data for reporting to tourism and funding bodies.

14. International Data Transfers

If personal information must be transferred outside Canada (e.g., for services like Mailchimp or FilmFreeway), we ensure providers comply with recognized international data protection standards.

15. International Data Transfers

We maintain physical, administrative, and technical security measures to protect your personal information: Password-protected systems Encrypted transactions (SSL) Restricted access based on role Secure servers located in Canada whenever possible Staff and volunteers receive training on best practices for data protection.

16. Managing Your Preferences

You have control over your data. You can: Update your communication preferences at any time Unsubscribe from marketing emails via a link at the bottom of each email Request access, correction, or deletion of your personal information

17. Contact Us

If you have questions about your information or would like to make a request, please contact: Privacy Officer Hollywood North International Film Festival (HNIFF) info@hollywoodnorthfilmfestival.org Vancouver, BC, Canada We encourage you to review this policy periodically, as updates may be made to reflect changes in law or our practices. If you wish to learn more about your privacy rights in British Columbia, you may contact: Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner for British Columbia PO Box 9038 Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, BC V8W 9A4