On 1 March 2022, I turned the camera onto myself as I prepared the annual report for the International Documentary Association. What could be more boring? Perhaps watching paint dry? You tell me (wink).

That said, the primary reason projects like Misima seek sponsorship is to be eligible for grants requiring non-profit status and to be able to seek tax-deductible donations from individuals and businesses like yourself.

It’s important to remember that donations are being made to IDA and not directly to the project director

Because many of you have donated your hard-earned money to support this unique film project. You may appreciate seeing how the accountability process works between IDA and me. They have strict guidelines for the documentary projects they fiscally sponsor. Every year, I must submit an annual report to them, which they review carefully. So, today's video update aims to give you a sense of that process.

Suppose they suspect an issue or concern with the fiscal side of production. In that case, IDA will suspend its sponsorship until the problem is remedied. And in more severe cases, they sever the relationship entirely, and any funds raised for the project will be restricted.

It’s important to remember that grants and donations solicited are being made to IDA and not directly to the project or the project director. IDA maintains complete discretion and control over funds granted to them in support of a sponsored project like Misima.

On 28 March 2022, after IDA carefully reviewed our annual report, they sent the attached letter, stating that:

Mr. Pitcher has submitted the required annual report, his project has been reviewed and is in good standing with the IDA.

If it interests you, you may read or download the full letter from Richard Perez. He is the executive director of IDA.

If you'd like to support the film Misima, the easiest thing you can do is share this link to help other’s learn about the film.

https://www.misimamovie.com/updates/annual-report-ida

If you can donate, the International Documentary Association, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has fiscally sponsored our project. So all donations are tax-deductible.

Ateu owa, which means "My heart to you" in the spoken language of Pana Misima.

Bryan Pitcher, Director & Producer