Founded in 2008, Doc Alliance is a collaborative network of seven key European documentary festivals—CPH:DOX, Doclisboa, FIDMarseille, Ji.hlava, Vision du Réel, Dok Leipzig, Millennium Docs Against Gravity—dedicated to promoting arthouse non-fiction cinema and supporting emerging filmmakers. For over 15 years, the initiative has played a pivotal role in strengthening the continent’s documentary scene by fostering inter-festival collaboration and increasing exposure for independent work. Spearheading many of its recent efforts is Galya Stepanova, the network’s coordinator and one of the driving forces behind its growing industry profile. Ahead of this year’s Cannes Film Festival and its Marché du Film (May 13–24), Documentary magazine sat down with her to discuss the Doc Alliance Award, long-term strategic goals, and how the network is adapting to better serve new voices and cross-border exchange.