[1] The festival focuses purely on showcasing domestic films "in an effort to strengthen and promote pride in American independent cinema".

Band performances, interactive media showcases, games, contests and giveaways are also held.

ACEFest's longtime supporter, New York Foundation for the Arts, held the honor of being the official presenter of that year's event.

The inaugural ACE Film Festival took place from August 24 to 26 at the Broad Street Ballroom, 41 Broad Street, right in the center of Manhattan's Financial District and in close proximity to the New York Stock Exchange.

One of the upper floors on the venue was transformed into "Club Ace", a networking lounge where a variety of activities took place.The independent director Caveh Zahedi, was a guest speaker.