Founded in 1978, BFF is a product of the social and artistic consciousness that developed in the late sixties and early 1970s. BFF designed and administered programs that addressed the institutional disenfranchisement of black filmmakers and black audiences. As a result of this effort, BFF has for more than for two decades played a pivotal role in the emergence of the contemporary Back film movement. Now in its third decade of service, BFF has expanded its mission and constituency to include all filmmakers of color and include digital media, as well film and television.

BFF host and administers the Cast and Crew of Color.org online community and programs films series and festivals.

BFF hosts a digital artist and scholar in residence and the BFF Lab.