International Documentary Association (IDA) and Manhattan Neighborhood Network (MNN) announced a new partnership that will connect the organizations’ access to each other’s events, facilities, and communities.

For over 30 years, MNN has provided access to local video production, distribution, and educational services that inform, entertain, and enrich the lives of all New Yorkers. MNN is the largest cablecaster of original video programs in the country, and its national program partners carry MNN programming to more than 20 million households nationwide and globally via livestream.

MNN is located on West 38th Street in the heart of Manhattan. It boasts state-of-the-art virtual production studios, two podcast studios, six open edit stations, and three closed edit suites. A closed screening room featuring a 4K DCP projector, 193″ screen with surround sound, live streaming, and recording capabilities. 

Starting on September 20, 2025, IDA members residing in or visiting New York City can use the MNN space as guests with their IDA membership card. IDA members will be invited on an orientation tour to sign up for a complimentary MNN membership, which includes free reservation of MNN spaces. IDA members will have full access to all MNN amenities for free or at a discounted rate. As a part of the partnership, all MNN members will receive a 20% discount on IDA memberships.

IDA will also host quarterly Work-In-Progress screenings for IDA members to show their work to fellow members and their guests to receive feedback. The first IDA Docs-In-Progress event will be held on November 13, 2025. 

MNN stands in a moment of catalytic expansion, and our partnership with IDA fuels our mission and impact. Together, we’re connecting the global documentary community and New York’s creative community by platforming independent storytelling at our state-of-the-art production facilities. That’s the kind of collaboration we love to spark.

-Sharese Bullock-Bailey, Chief Program Officer at Manhattan Neighborhood Network

MNN’s facilities, including studios, event space, and screening room, are ADA-compliant and wheelchair accessible, with elevator access to all floors. Gender-inclusive, accessible restrooms are also available.