The SFFILM Doc Film Fund is open to filmmakers based anywhere in the U.S. or internationally. Final Deadline: Fri, May 31, 2024 at 11:59 pm (PST)
SFFILM Documentary Film Fund
The SFFILM Documentary Film Fund (DFF) supports engaging documentaries in post-production which exhibit compelling stories, intriguing characters, and an original, innovative visual approach. Since its launch in 2011, the SFFILM Documentary Film Fund has distributed more than $900,000 to advance new work by filmmakers nationwide.
DFF grants are awarded once each year to documentary feature projects and are open to filmmakers internationally. Individual grant amounts and the number of grants made will be determined on an annual basis. As with all SFFILM grants, in addition to the cash awards, recipients will gain access to numerous benefits through the comprehensive and dynamic SFFILM Makers artist development program.
Finalist Materials
10-25 applicants will be chosen as finalists. The following materials will be required for further consideration before the winners are selected. Finalists will have two – three weeks to submit these items:
- A work sample that is up to 10 minutes long. You may share either an excerpt (or excerpts) OR a full cut of your film with specific time codes for the 10 minutes you feel most strongly represent your artistic vision, characters, and story. The external review committee will only see this work sample and not the original one you submitted. We highly recommend that your work sample be a scene or scenes versus a trailer or teaser. The review committee will not be able to watch more than 10 minutes.
- An updated, detailed budget (should include line items, not just top sheet)
- Any updates to the film or stage that you would like to share with the review committee (1-2 paragraphs max, please)
The Documentary Film Fund grants its support to approximately 3-5 projects each year with grants of $10,000 – $20,000
