Founded by John David Ware in 2003, the 168 Film Project started with 13 entries in its inaugural event in Burbank, California.[2] In 2009, 168 added "Write of Passage," a mentored screenwriting competition in which writers worldwide produce a short film script in one week.[3] In 2022, 168 moved its festival location to Fayetteville, Georgia.[3] 168 is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation.