Queer cinema is a particle accelerator, and queer festivals work as catalysts. Emerging from local collectives and evolving into major community events, side by side with indie theatres, these festivals have long functioned as essential distribution circuits for queer filmmaking. The TEDDY itself grew out of the LGBT Film Festival collective, whose annual gatherings at the Berlinale not only sparked the creation of the award but also fostered a space where festivals could exchange ideas, expand their programmes and amplify their films through the visibility the TEDDY conferred. This raises crucial questions about cultural infrastructure and influence. Did this additional spotlight lend greater gravitas to queer festivals, enabling them to grow, professionalise and sustain their programming over time? In what ways has the TEDDY strengthened the international network of queer film festivals and how has it inspired, shaped or materially supported the evolution of this global ecosystem?