Storytelling has long been at the heart of how nonprofits inspire action—and few tools are more emotionally resonant than film. In our July 15, 2025 TechSoup Connect Canada session, we were joined by Eva Zheng, founder of Empact, a platform that helps mission-driven organizations turn powerful films into actionable campaigns.

Whether you’re a grassroots organizer or national nonprofit leader, this session offered practical strategies for using film screenings to mobilize donors, build trust, and extend your community reach.

Here are seven key takeaways from the session to help you rethink your approach to fundraising and community engagement.

1. Use Film to Build Emotional Connection

Facts are important—but emotions move people. Eva reminded us that stories are 22 times more memorable than facts alone, and film is uniquely positioned to evoke empathy. When supporters are moved emotionally, they’re far more likely to take action, whether it’s donating, volunteering, or advocating.

2. Add Clear Calls-to-Action to Every Screening

Don’t let the energy end when the credits roll. The Empact platform makes it easy to pair each film with custom calls-to-action—like signing a petition, sharing on social media, or donating. Even small next steps can help convert emotional impact into meaningful, sustained engagement.

3. Create Partnerships to Boost Trust

Viewers are more likely to support an organization if it’s been vetted by a filmmaker or festival. When you partner with a film as its impact partner, you gain third-party credibility—and a shared audience. That trust-building effect is especially powerful in a crowded nonprofit landscape.

4. Leverage Social Media and Storytelling Together

According to Eva, social media is the #1 channel inspiring people to give—especially among younger donors. And social is inherently visual. Collaborating with filmmakers and using video content gives your nonprofit a natural advantage on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

5. Tap Into Filmmaker Networks

Many independent filmmakers are actively looking for nonprofit partners to help distribute their work and build community around their stories. Eva emphasized that this is a two-way opportunity: nonprofits gain access to new audiences, while filmmakers increase their reach and potential for impact.

6. Turn Film Nights into Corporate Engagement Opportunities

Struggling to find meaningful volunteer opportunities for corporate partners? Hosting a film screening that aligns with your mission can be a low-barrier entry point. Some companies will even offer donation matching or sponsorships if you package the event as a value-aligned experience.

7. Don’t Stop at the Screening—Create a Journey

Film is a great entry point, but lasting support comes from building a relationship. Eva encouraged nonprofits to follow up with attendees through emails, discussion groups, or even digital handbooks. The goal is to turn passive viewers into active champions for your cause.

🎬 Watch the full recording:
Harnessing the Power of Film – YouTube Replay

💡 Special thanks to Eva Zheng for generously sharing her insights and showcasing the Empact platform.

Connect with Empact

Learn more or get in touch with Eva:
🌐 Website: https://empact.fyi
📧 Email: eva@empact.fyi

Empact bridges the gap between powerful storytelling and measurable action, helping nonprofits partner with storytellers to activate engaged audiences around your cause. Whether you’re looking to reach new audiences or increase donor engagement, Empact helps leading organizations see up to 200% increases in partner engagement and measurable community action.

Up next, they’re partnering with the Asian American International Film Festival (AAIFF) and are seeking nonprofit collaborators for audience activation campaigns.
🗓️ Fill out this interest form by Wednesday, June 23rd and create an account to explore more insights and opportunities.📅 Don’t miss out on upcoming sessions!
Visit events.techsoup.org to browse and register for future TechSoup Connect Canada events. Our sessions are always free and designed to help nonprofit professionals stay on the cutting edge of digital strategy and tools.