Founded in 1998, The Film Lab is a not-for-profit corporation with members across the globe consisting of diverse filmmakers, directors, producers, writers, editors, actors, and crew members. The organization provides monthly programs to support gender and ethnic diversity in film and television. The Film Lab works to promote education and support ethnic and gender diversity in films and television through a series of programs and events that include Unfinished Works, a program for writers; Industry Spotlight, a program for filmmakers; Connections, a networking arm that encompasses the Film Lab's famous 72-Hour Shootout filmmaking competition and the Lab's Annual Holiday Gala; and AAFL TV, the Lab's production arm.