The International Documentary Association (IDA) has launched Digital Membership through a new partnership with Cuseum. The change updates how members receive their benefits and stay connected to programs, events, and one another. IDA joins institutions such as the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Don Harrington Discovery Center, and Baltimore Museum of Art in adopting mobile-first membership tools that focus on access and efficiency.
Built for a Worldwide Documentary Community
Founded in 1982 and based in Los Angeles, IDA is a nonprofit that supports nonfiction filmmakers across every stage of their work. With more than 2,000 members in over 50 countries, the organization promotes the documentary genre through grants, fiscal sponsorship, legal advocacy, public programs, and education. IDA also publishes Documentary magazine, hosts the annual IDA Awards, and produces Doc U events for filmmakers at all levels.
Over the years, IDA has helped raise visibility for major titles, offered direct support to independent filmmakers, and stood at the center of national conversations on press freedom and public funding for the arts.
What Changes with Digital Membership
Through Cuseum’s DMs, IDA members now receive their membership cards digitally, delivered straight to their smartphones via Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. This new format puts benefits and essential information directly into their hands, wherever they are.
Members can easily pull up their digital card at screenings, events, and partner venues. Cards update automatically when renewed, eliminating the need to print or mail physical copies. Important membership details—like reciprocal benefits or upcoming deadlines—can be viewed instantly on the back of the digital card.
For an international membership base, this shift removes the delays and costs of shipping, while offering a more dependable way to stay informed. Members never have to worry about misplacing their card or waiting for one to arrive in the mail.
Why the Shift Matters
By adopting digital cards, IDA lowers operating costs and cuts back on time spent assembling, printing, and mailing physical membership materials. The process is now faster, cleaner, and far less manual.
Digital Membership also makes communication more effective. Time-sensitive messages—like voting reminders or event alerts—can be delivered directly through the card via push notifications. This ensures members stay connected to what matters most without having to search through crowded inboxes.
For IDA, the move supports a more sustainable, modern membership experience. For members, it means faster access, fewer headaches, and a smoother connection to the community they value.
Part of a Larger Commitment
Digital Membership is one part of IDA’s broader effort to keep pace with the evolving needs of its network. In an industry shaped by deadlines, travel, and international collaboration, having reliable digital access to membership tools isn’t a bonus—it’s a necessity. This move reflects that reality and meets members where they are.
Learn More
To find out more about IDA Membership, visit documentary.org.
If your organization is ready to make a similar change, book a demo and see how Digital Membership works in action.