kNIFVES – Our History

Where it all began and how we became the kNIFVES of today

W.J. Lazarus, a writer, producer, and director, discovered other media talent in the Northwest while working on an independent feature in North Idaho in 2005.  Wishing to network with other professionals, he gathered a small group for lunch in 2006.  His timing was perfect, and within a few short months, the fledgling group attracted a core group of individuals, and the interest and support of the Idaho Film Bureau.

On August 15, 2006, Lazarus named the group he had founded, and Kootenai and North Idaho Film, Video and Entertainment Society (KNIFVES) was born.

KNIFVES received 501(c)3 Non-Profit status in 2008 and began offering formal membership in 2009.  Having grown to include many members in neighboring Washington, the group changed it’s name to “kNIFVES – Northwest Independent Film & Video Entertainment Society” at that time with a stated purpose of dedication to providing an open forum for film, video, and live entertainment professionals, amateurs, and enthusiasts in an effort to promote knowledge, discussion, training, and networking.

Today kNIFVES membership continues to climb as the group attracts those with experience or interest in every aspect of the film, video, and entertainment field.

Our Mission Statement

kNIFVES is dedicated to providing an open forum for all Inland Northwest film, video, media, and live entertainment professionals, amateurs, and enthusiasts in an effort to promote knowledge, education, training, and networking.