2025-2026 CSP ARTIST COLLECTIVE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
Conch Shell Productions
DEADLINE: February 3, 2025 at 11:59pm EST
INFO: Screenwriters and playwrights of Caribbean heritage! Conch Shell Productions is accepting applications for membership in its CSP Artist Collective.
MEMBERSHIP PERIOD: March 2025 - Feb 2026
GUIDELINES:
As per our mission, members must be of either of Caribbean ancestry or nationality.
Members agree to attend one monthly Writer's Room (online gatherings). Duration: 3 hours per session.
Members have the option of sharing up to 40 minutes (20-30 pages) of current work (film, tv or theatre) and get feedback (members will cold read the pages for each other.)
Members will sign up to share pages (preferably a month ahead of time)
Fellow members, CSP’s dramaturg and AD will provide feedback on works
Members will volunteer to lead discussions about the craft, and the session opening icebreaker.
Members agree to be Conch Shell Productions ambassadors
Sharing CSP weekly posts via social media
Getting the word out about all online and in person CSP events.
Introduce CSP to possible supporters, sponsors, new audiences, and donors.
Collaborate with follow members on CSP readings (whenever possible)
8. Members must attend a minimum of 80% CSP online monthly meetings and events. In-Person events - when possible.
9. Membership in the collective is a yearly membership at no cost to members. (workshops and CSP events are free for members)
10. If invited to do so, members are welcome to extend their membership into the following year
11. Annual new works readings:
Artistic Director and Dramaturg will select works to be included in the reading series (Bluelight Series (full length works), CSP New Works Fest (one act plays)
Playwrights will self-produce their plays for these event
Max cast size: 5.
CSP will finance part or the whole cost of the reading (based on available funding)
12. Cold readings and shared pages readings during meetings - private. No audience.
13. Public readings will take place online or in-person - depending on the location of the writer (only NYC-based writers or writers ready and willing to self finance travel and stay in NYC are eligible to have their work featured in our in-person reading fest)
14. CSP budget for readings - tbd.
15. Reading date (s): Bluelight Series (dates tbd); CSP New Works Fest December 2025 (dates tbd)
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Diane Weyermann Fellowship
Points North Institute (Camden, ME)
DEADLINE: February 3, 2025 at 11:59pm ET
INFO: Through her leadership roles at the Soros Foundation, Sundance Institute, and Participant, Diane Weyermann made immeasurable contributions to global expansion and artistic flourishing of independent documentary filmmaking. In honor of her generosity and her commitment to supporting bold, visionary artists, the Diane Weyermann Fellowship champions filmmaking teams producing bold, cinematic feature-length documentaries that take artistic risks in highlighting stories of moral and ethical urgency.
The 18-month program includes $100,000 in unrestricted grants for each project, tailored mentorship from veteran filmmakers and industry leaders, two creative retreats at CIFF, and ongoing professional development—all designed to support the completion of Fellows’ films and the advancement of their careers as artists.
OVERVIEW: Mirroring Diane’s generosity and commitment to bold, visionary storytelling, the Diane Weyermann Fellowship program aims to empower advanced-career creative documentary directors and producers, building a robust community of support that will help them create significant works of art that connect with audiences across the world.
Up to three original, feature-length documentaries in mid to late production from global filmmaking teams will be selected to participate in a 18 month collaborative Fellowship program.
Over the course of 18 months, Diane Weyermann Fellows receive:
$100,000 in total grant support ($50,000/ year) to support both director/producer salaries and/or production costs and/or post-production costs
Two creative retreats in Maine coinciding with the 2025 and 2026 Camden International Film Festivals, including work-in progress feedback screenings, mentor-led workshops and industry networking opportunities.
Ongoing mentorship designed to support the filmmaking teams in the advancement of the project, as well as the individual professional and personal. growth of each fellow, through monthly cohort calls, peer support, connection with industry leaders, and reviewing proposals and budgets, providing notes on work samples and rough cuts as needed throughout the duration of the program.
ELIGIBILITY:
Content: Cinematic, feature-length documentaries (70 minutes or longer) highlighting stories of moral and ethical urgency that will resonate with international audiences.
Project Stage: We’re looking for films between in mid-to-late production stages with at least 10 minutes of edited material at the time of application and access secured with key participants, including signed releases.
Applicants must hold at least 50% of the project’s copyright.
Projects on track to be completed and released via festivals and/or theatrical distribution in late 2026 or in 2027 will be prioritized. Due to the duration of the fellowship, projects scheduled to be completed between the end of 2025 and beginning of 2026 will not be eligible.
Budget: Projects with budgets of less than $1.5 million and at least 10% of budget raised from other sources will be prioritized.
As a note, for the disbursement of the grant money, film teams must be working with a Fiscal Sponsor or other formal financial entity. Fiscal sponsorship is not required at the time of application, but will just need to be secured by the time selected projects receive their funding.
Team: Projects must have both a director and producer attached, with both having at least one feature-length film completed and distributed, and signed MOUs or contracts in place for the current project in the application.
We strongly encourage applications from filmmakers that have been historically marginalized in the film industry by virtue of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, ability, age, class or citizenship status, as well as filmmakers from countries and regions within the Global South.
SELECTION PROCESS:
All applications that pass an eligibility check based on the above criteria will advance to Phase 1 of review.
Members of Points North’s curatorial team will select up to 25 finalists to advance to Phase 2. Finalists will be notified and asked to provide any relevant project updates.
In Phase 2, a Selection Committee comprised of Points North staff and 3-5 jurors will review all finalist applications and recommend a shortlist based on the following criteria:
Artistic Approach: Does the project have a clear creative direction or vision? Does it demonstrate a unique visual language or an innovative approach to the documentary form?
Topic: Are the central topics/themes/questions unique to this film, or is the approach to the topic structured in an original way? Does this film ask questions that have a particular moral and ethical urgency? Are the filmmakers approaching their protagonists/participants with nuance and authenticity?
Connection to Story/Community: Does the filmmaker have a strong connection or collaborative relationship with the individuals and/or communities they plan to represent on screen? Have they carefully considered their ethical responsibilities, including any potential risks to participants in the film?
Feasibility: Are the proposed project timeline and budget realistic? Does the filmmaking team have the experience and/or team necessary to realize the vision outlined? Are there any concerns about roadblocks this project may face in the future?
Project and Career Stage: Is the project at a stage where the resources, mentorship, industry connections and exposure provided during this 18-month program, from mid 2025 to end of 2026, will significantly advance its progress? Is the filmmaking team in a place where this opportunity will help them build a more sustainable career in independent documentary filmmaking?
Audience: Does the project have the potential to resonate with its target audience(s) and reach audiences across international borders and cultures?
In Phase 3, recommended applicants will be interviewed by Points North staff. Final decisions will be made by June 2025.
pointsnorthinstitute.org/artist-programs/diane-weyermann-fellowship/
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Points North Fellowship
Points North Institute (Camden, ME)
DEADLINE / FEES:
Early Bird Deadline: February 3, 2025 by 11:59pm ET | $25
Regular Deadline: February 24, 2025 by 11:59pm ET | $35
Late Deadline: March 24, 2025 by 11:59pm ET | $45
INFO: The Points North Fellowship invites up to six teams of early- and mid-career filmmakers to Maine to accelerate the development of their feature documentary, culminating in the public presentation of works-in-progress at the Points North Pitch. The Points North Fellowship aims to strengthen filmmakers’ artistic voices and propel their careers forward by facilitating new relationships with mentors, collaborators and funders. We believe that a strong community of support is vital for independent filmmakers who are taking bold creative risks and expanding the possibilities of documentary cinema.
The Fellowship begins during the week leading up to the annual Camden International Film Festival. In private workshops, Fellows receive rigorous feedback from mentors and peers as they practice their pitches, hone their vision for their film, and develop their funding and distribution strategies. These workshops culminate at the Points North Pitch, where each team pitches their project to leading funders, broadcasters, producers and distributors before a live audience – both in-person and streaming online.
In the weeks after the fellowship week, the filmmaking teams will have an opportunity to be paired for virtual industry meetings with key industry members, distributors, and programmers to help bridge critical gaps and build relationships with decision makers within the industry. In addition, leading up to and in the weeks after the pitch, fellows will get tailored advertisement and mentorship from the Points North team to help advise on the goals and strategies around their projects.
This program has continued to be a cornerstone of our artist programs, serving as an important launchpad for filmmakers and projects who are taking bold risks on their films, reaffirming our commitment to bridging important gaps between filmmakers and industry.
ELIGIBILITY:
The Points North Fellowship is open to all filmmakers worldwide, regardless of nationality or citizenship status.
Submitted projects must be feature-length, with an intended runtime of 60 minutes or more.
Projects in all stages of production and post-production are accepted. Typically, films either in early development and those about to submit to festivals are not an ideal match for the program.
Applicants must be able to convey a clear vision for the completed film, including story and artistic approach, in the written proposal and in an edited work sample at least 5 minutes in length. (Selected projects will be required to show a 3-4 minute trailer live during the Points North Pitch.)
The Points North Fellowship does NOT support short films, fiction films, educational/advocacy films, or films commissioned by NGOs or brands.
Projects that have not secured access to characters or subjects, and those that aren’t yet ready to articulate a story, structure and themes, are discouraged.
POINTS NORTH FELLOWS WILL RECEIVE:
(1) Round-trip flight to Maine
(2) All Access passes to the Camden International Film Festival
(6) nights of accommodations (one room with a double bed) during the festival
pointsnorthinstitute.org/artist-programs/points-north-fellowship/
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2025 TORCH RETREAT
Torch Literary Arts
APPLICATION PERIOD: February 3 - 17, 2025
APPLICATION FEE: $0
INFO: Torch Literary Arts is proud to provide our annual creative writing retreat. We welcome applications from Black women writers with works-in-progress across poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction (personal memoir or lyric essays), and script (plays or screenplays).
RETREAT LOCATION: Austin, TX
ABOUT THE RETREAT:
Dedicated Writing Time - Fellows receive plenty of time for dedicated writing devoted to their works in progress. We gently support you in your writing goals for the week by providing group check-ins and the opportunity to share your progress in a nurturing environment.
Comfortable Accommodations - Retreat fellows will stay at the beautiful Colton House Hotel. Accommodations include a private bedroom and bathroom in a two-bedroom suite with a shared living room and full kitchen. During your week-long retreat, you will receive dedicated writing time each morning, catered breakfast and lunch, and ample time during the afternoons and evenings to rest, recharge, enjoy the hotel amenities, or explore the city. The retreat will also include guest speakers and a public reading by fellows at the end of the week.
Financial Support - There is no fee to apply or attend the retreat. Each fellow will receive a $1,000 stipend to assist with travel, supplies, childcare, or anything else that helps make it possible for fellows to attend regardless of financial ability.
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RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT GRANT
Chicken & Egg Films
DEADLINE: February 4, 2025
INFO: This program supports filmmakers who are in the research or development phase of their feature documentary.
Launched in 2023 with support from Netflix, the Chicken & Egg Films Research & Development Grant provides financial support to directors during research and development, filmmaking phases that are too often unpaid and unsupported. Many filmmakers invest their personal resources to get their projects off the ground because it is hard to secure funding without significant sample material. Yet, producing material without external funding can be almost impossible. Our grant addresses this “chicken or egg” challenge.
A total of $450,000 USD is awarded in the following grant amounts:
$10,000 USD grants for Research
$20,000 USD grants for Development
The 2025 Chicken & Egg Films Research & Development Grant is generously supported by the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity.
In order to apply for an R&D Grant, please download this Program & Application Guide.
Have questions? Join our team for an informational webinar on January 9, 2025, at 11am ET. Register here.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
Trust: This grant initiative is driven by our trust in filmmakers with an established track record. We trust that applicants will make the best determination about which stage to apply to based on the information presented below.
Simplicity: We aim to keep the application as simple as possible so that filmmakers are not burdened by the process.
Deep listening: This grant emerged from listening to a wide range of stakeholders including filmmakers and field representatives during our 2023-2025 Strategic Planning process. Filmmakers shared a desire for financial support to be allocated where they see the greatest need, as well as time and space to think, research, and develop new ideas.
ELIGIBILITY:
You may only submit one application per cycle. If you have more than one eligible project, you must submit only one for consideration. You may apply for either the Research Grant or Development Grant, but not both.
Applicant Eligibility Filmmakers must meet the following criteria:
Identify as a woman or gender-expansive filmmaker.
Have directed at least one feature-length documentary, which is defined as an independently produced film that is at least 48 minutes in length.
Be based anywhere in the world (except for countries under comprehensive US sanctions).
Project Eligibility Projects must meet the following criteria:
Must be a documentary or nonfiction film (including hybrid docs).
Must be feature-length (48 minutes or more).
Must be in the research or development stage.
Must be independently produced. Works-for-hire are not eligible, and student films produced in an undergraduate or graduate program are also not eligible.
You do not need a fiscal sponsor to apply for the Research & Development Grant. However, if you are awarded, you must have a US fiscal sponsor, or be a 501(c)(3), to receive the funds.
For more information on eligibility, please download this Program & Application Guide.
EVALUATION CRITERIA:
Priority will be given to films committed to creating social change and/or uplifting underrepresented stories that challenge mainstream narratives. We support a broad range of issues from the personal to the political that explore a variety of artistic approaches, such as personal, experimental, animated, essayistic, archival, and beyond.
Story, Concept, Theme: Is this a timely story? Are the topics and themes compelling and relevant? Are there clear subject matter and questions that will be explored?
Prior Work: Does the director’s prior work exhibit artistry and competency that creates confidence they will execute the current project well?
Access and Accountability: Does the director clearly articulate their connection to the story, film participants, and community, and is thoughtful about the processes for accountability in working with them?
Feasibility and Grant Impact: Are the project idea and planned activities feasible in terms of scope and timeline? Will the grant have an impact on advancing the project?
APPLICATION:
The majority of the questions are based on the Nonfiction Core Application 2.0, with a few additional questions included. The applications for the Research Grant and Development Grant are not the same. The Development Grant application asks an additional set of questions to collect more detailed information about the project.
Ready to apply? Fill out the mandatory pre-application here.
chickeneggfilms.org/programs/research-and-development-grant
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THE DIVERSO FELLOWSHIP 2025
DIVERSO
DEADLINE: February 6, 2025
INFO: DIVERSO is a student-run film nonprofit dedicated to changing the face of entertainment by empowering the next generation of underrepresented storytellers.
In partnership with THE WRITERS GUILD FOUNDATION, we have created The Diverso Fellowship: a paid fellowship program for minority student screenwriters.
Vetted by a rigorous committee of industry professionals, three talented students will be selected to spend ten weeks over the summer of 2025, attending panels and classes with renowned industry professionals, learning from the best by shadowing writers' rooms, and receiving mentorship to refine their scripts and prepare for professional opportunities, including staffing or representation.
Selected students will receive a $5,000 stipend to support a part-time commitment over 10 weeks. Fellows are expected to make a 20-hour commitment each week and are required to attend all Fellowship events, including educational panels, mentor meetings, script workshops, and more. The fellowship will be hosted virtually over the summer (tentatively set for June 15th - August 24th).
Our program is made possible by our incredible sponsors: WarnerBros Discovery, Madison Wells Media, Lin Manuel-Miranda’s Miranda Family Fund, the Writers Guild Foundation, and more.
INFO SESSIONS:
To give you all the tools you need to succeed and send us your best applications possible, we will be hosting two info sessions with members of our team + previous fellows, where we will be answering all of your questions.
Please follow us on social media @diversoorg to stay tuned for specific dates and times!
PRICES AND DEADLINES:
Early Bird Pricing (From January 6th - January 26th)
Pilot (under 70 pages) --> $25
Feature (75 pages+) --> $30
Regular (From January 27th - February 6th)
Pilot (under 70 pages) --> $30
Feature (70 pages+) --> $35
BENEFITS:
1. $5,000 stipend
2. 1-1 mentorship
*Fellows will be matched with experienced writers in the industry based on their personalized style and experience. Mentors will provide both career and script guidance. Previous Diverso mentors include:
Joe Robert Cole, BLACK PANTHER
Charise Castro Smith, ENCANTO
Nahnatchka Khan, FRESH OFF THE BOAT
And many more.
3. Educational virtual panels with top industry professionals
*Previous speakers include:
The Daniels, EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE
Lin-Manuel Miranda, HAMILTON
Jessica Gao, RICK & MORTY
Amy Aniobi, INSECURE
Barry Jenkins, MOONLIGHT
Meg LeFauve, INSIDE OUT
Kemp Powers, ACROSS THE SPIDERVERSE
4. Script development workshops
5. Shadowing in writers’ rooms
*Past shows have been from Disney+, AppleTV+, and The CW
6. Access to a network where you will build lifelong relationships with like-minded peers and alumni
writers.coverfly.com/competitions/view/diverso-fellowship
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Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab
Hillman Grad Productions
DEADLINE: February 9, 2025 at 11:59pm ET
INFO: The Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab provides opportunities for underrepresented storytellers to connect, grow, and accelerate their career in television.
Committed to infusing new narratives and perspectives in front of and behind the camera, the Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab provides a robust slate of workshops, educational resources, and professional development and networking opportunities for a cohort of diverse writers, actors, and aspiring creative executives.
The tuition-free, 6-month program grants fellows the unique opportunity to enhance their creative skillset through personalized instruction from industry professionals, creating additional pathways to bring more people from diverse backgrounds into the entertainment industry.
PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS:
This program requires an expected commitment of 10 hours/week.
In-person attendance at three workshops in Los Angeles: kick-off weekend (April 2025), mid-year retreat weekend (July 2025), and capstone week (September 2025). Travel accommodations will be provided for mentees living outside of the Greater Los Angeles area.
Virtual attendance at all classes via Zoom (Writers/Actors: Saturday mornings; Executives: Weekday evenings).
Meet all program deadlines; professionally participate in the program.
Failure to deliver on any of the above may result in termination from the program.
Participation in this program does not guarantee current or future employment of any kind.
Commitment to the program from April - September 2025.
CURRICULUM:
The Hillman Grad Mentorship Lab consists of three separate tracks: television writing, acting, and executive development.
Acting Track: The acting track will prepare mentees for jump starting their on-screen careers. Acting mentees will focus on mastering craft, gain a full and complete understanding of the business side of the industry, and be connected to guests who are leaders in their field from all parts of the industry both in front of and behind the camera. Mentees will critically explore a wide array of genres, expanding their creative capacity to successfully deliver powerful performances, understand the industry, nail their audition, and develop a process for a long-lasting career. Mentees will be instructed and mentored by Behzad Dabu.
Executive Development Track: The executive development track will prepare mentees for transitioning from working as an assistant or coordinator to a creative executive. Mentees will learn from a variety of industry executives by exploring how to track and analyze talent/material, practice pitching, and work closely with writing mentees to develop their in-program pilot script. Mentees will be instructed and mentored by Kyle Fong.
Writing Track: The writing track is designed to prepare mentees for a career in television. Writing mentees will engage in a comprehensive writing experience developing an original pilot from concept ideation to a fully polished script. Mentees will dive deep into the process of pilot writing while undertaking a series of rewrites from notes by the instructor, peers, and creative executives. Along the way, there will be industry guest speakers, a simulated writers’ room, and lots of community building. All capped off by a table read of your pilot featuring professional actors. Mentees will be instructed and mentored by Michael Svoboda.
FAQs:
When does the Mentorship Lab start?
The Mentorship Lab will begin in April 2025.
Can I apply to multiple tracks?
Applicants may only apply for one track.
Do I have to live in Los Angeles to participate in the Mentorship Lab?
Applicants are not required to live in the Greater Los Angeles Area to participate in the Mentorship Lab. All classes will be offered virtually with the exception of three in-person workshops. Travel accommodations will be provided for mentees living outside of the Greater Los Angeles area.
What are the age requirements?
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and not a minor in the state or country of your residence at time of submission
hillmangrad.com/foundation/mentorship-lab
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Open call for filmmakers: RELEASE 006
Craft & Release / On Lunch Break
DEADLINE: February 9, 2025 by 11:59pm EST
INFO: We’re looking for short films about CHANGE: a shift that disrupted the familiar, a decision that altered the course of a life, or an event that reshaped the way your protagonist saw the world.
show us a moment when the ground beneath them shifted—a relationship evolving into something unrecognizable, a long-held belief being challenged, or a return to a place that no longer feels like home. whether the change was sudden or years in the making, use your short film to show us the weight of that moment.
global submissions welcome.
RULES & REQUIREMENTS:
Storyteller must be 18 or older to submit.
Submissions must be in video format (MP4, MOV, or AVI).
Short Films must be 5-12 minutes in length.
Submissions must be original work created by the filmmaker submitting.
SELECTION:
The selected filmmakers will be notified via email regarding next steps.
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Catapult Development Grant
Catapult Film Fund
DEADLINE: February 12, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. PST.
INFO: Launched in 2010, the Catapult Development Fund provides early-stage support to documentary filmmakers when funding is hardest to find. Catapult has two funding cycles per year, with application deadlines in the summer and winter. In 2025, we will offer fifteen (15) grants of up to $25,000 USD to filmmakers in development with a documentary feature or short. We do not support docuseries at this time.
Our flagship program is geared toward independent filmmakers who have a strong story to tell, have secured access, and are ready to unlock critical production funding. This grant can be used for a variety of development needs and must result in the creation of a fundraising piece as the final deliverable. We prioritize artful, moving storytelling and are not tied to any specific social issue agenda.
Learn more about Frequently Asked Questions»
KEY DATES:
May 2025: Grantees notified
Summer 2025: Grantees announced
ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants (Project Director) must be 18 years or older and cannot be enrolled in an academic institution.
Documentaries must be in development or early production with an intended length of 28 minutes or longer.
Grant funds must specifically be used to create a fundraising piece, which may include writing, shooting and editing once story and characters are in place.
Applicants must own the copyright of their production, and have artistic, budgetary, and editorial control over their project.
Applicants should have previous film or television production experience in a principal role (director, co-director, producer, co-producer) as demonstrated via previous visual samples. Applicants who do not meet this criteria should demonstrate how they will be working with experienced filmmakers as key creative personnel.
Catapult does not make grants to individuals. If selected, applicants must be able to accept grants through a 501(c)(3) organization such as a fiscal sponsor. Projects may apply without a fiscal sponsor but must confirm the designated organization in order to receive funding. Learn more in our Frequently Asked Questions»
Catapult does not fund student films, docuseries, fiction projects, or projects that are in production, post-production, or completed. Hybrid and experimental formats will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
SELECTION CRITERIA:
Artful, compelling storytelling that moves you, with a preference for character-driven narratives over lesson or agenda-heavy projects
Originality of approach, content, and form
Creative and innovative storytelling techniques
Contemporary relevance with a unique perspective, style, and/or tone
Project feasibility with respect to budget, financing, schedule, and scope
Demonstrated ability of the creative team to implement previous projects
Credible access and rapport with the proposed subject(s) of the story, with attention to accountability and ethics
Significant impact of Catapult grant on development stage of the project
Potential of the project to generate public discourse and social engagement
GUIDELINES:
Grant awards range from $5000 to $25,000. If selected, grantees must have a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor to officially accept the award.
Once accepted, Catapult will provide a letter of agreement that clearly outlines use of funds, reporting, and deliverables. Report deadlines are determined by the grantee, based on project goals and timeline.
Grantees must submit two financial reports during the course of the grant period: an interim report, which will accompany a narrative report; and a final financial report to be submitted once the grant is complete.
Upon completion of the award period, grantees must submit the proposed fundraising piece. Grantees agree to return any funds not used for the purpose of the grant.
Grantees will be expected to acknowledge Catapult support with text and/or logo recognition in film credits, publicity, and promotional materials, as well as tickets to the film’s premiere.
Beyond the grant, Catapult serves as an early and engaged champion for our grantees by providing editorial feedback, industry connections, and mentorship based on project needs.
catapultfilmfund.org/how-to-apply/
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New Voices filmmaker grant
NewFest / Netflix
DEADLINE: February 13, 2025
INFO: NewFest’s New Voices Filmmaker Grant, supported by Netflix, supports emerging LGBTQ+ directors by providing funding to make new work, assisting in getting their work more widely shared, and propelling their careers forward through mentorship, networking and professional development opportunities.
The Grant seeks to support underrepresented voices in the film industry, and provides a $25,000 unrestricted grant to 4 emerging directors.
In addition to the $25,000 grant and industry mentorship, fellows will also participate in events and have their work showcased at NewFest’s New York LGBTQ+ Film Festival, one of the largest queer film festivals in the world. Fellows will also have the opportunity to travel as guests of NewFest to other North American film festivals.
Submissions are accepted from emerging LGBTQ+ directors who make documentary/nonfiction, narrative, and/or animated film/episodic projects for and about the LGBTQ+ community.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
At the time of application, eligible filmmakers:
Are at least 18 years of age.
Identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Currently live in the US, have resided in the US continuously for at least the past two years, and plan to reside in the US for the full duration of the grant period (through June 2026), regardless of the filmmaker’s citizenship or immigration status.
Have previously directed at least one (1) short film or episodic inclusive of LGBTQ+ content that was completed within the past 3 years (since January 2022).
Have not previously directed a completed feature-length film (over 60 mins), even if self-funded or without distribution.
Must not have formal representation (i.e. are not currently signed with an agent and/or manager).
Must not have entered a distribution deal for any of their directorial work in which they both received monetary compensation and granted exclusive North American distribution rights to a third-party distributor.
APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
All applications must be received via the Airtable application form and include:
Resume/CV
Links to 1-3 completed work samples (totalling no more than 25 minutes). At least one work sample must have been completed within the past three years (since January 2022). Any additional work samples must have been completed within the past five years (no earlier than January 2020).
Artist Statement (max 600 words): Tell us about yourself and your directorial vision. Please provide a statement that includes your (1) background, (2) reflections on your previous experience(s) directing and/or working on additional film/media projects, and (3) artistic approach to LGBTQ+ storytelling.
Statement of Intent (max 400 words): What are your goals as a filmmaker, and what would you plan to do with the grant funds should you be selected as a recipient? Please describe what specific project(s) you would pursue with grant support and what you hope to accomplish within the grant period (July 2025-June 2026).
For all queries, please reach out to newvoices@newfest.org
newfest.org/new-voices-filmmaker-grant
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Indigenous Writer in Residency
Cranberry Lake Biological Station (Syracuse, NY)
DEADLINE: February 15, 2025
APPLICATION FEE: $0
INFO: Cranberry Lake Biological Station (CLBS) is located in the heart of the Adirondack Park, on the lands of the Mohawk Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. The biological station is a satellite campus of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF), in Syracuse, NY.
For over 100 years CLBS has served as a source of ecological knowledge and inspiration. Generations of students have learned from the land, explored their interests, and built lasting bonds with other students. CLBS is a place where student aspirations take root and career paths are launched. It is also a hub of research with over 115 peer reviewed publications crediting CLBS. Building on this tradition our mission is to provide learners with exceptional field experiences, further ecological understanding of the Adirondacks, engage with the broader scientific community, ensure diverse communities are supported in field studies, and to engage with local communities.
ABOUT THE RESIDENCY:
Three, three-week residency slots are: May 18 - June 6, June 8 – June 27, July 13 - August 1. Housing, a private room with shared living space, three meals a day are provided at the station dining hall, and a workspace will be provided. The resident will also have access to all facilities including canoes, classroom spaces, microscopes, and the ability to join classes if desired. Additional needs and requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Eligibility: The residency is open to Indigenous writers over 21 years of age whowrite poetry, plays/screenplays, fiction/short stories, and/or nonfiction.
Funding: The residency is fully subsidized and provides housing, food, and workspace space at no cost. In addition, the selected artist will receive a stipend/travel allowance of $1,000.
Expectations: It is expected that each resident will offer two evening readings/discussion during the residency, one for students at the station and one for local residents, these programs will be planned in conjunction with CLBS staff. In the fall writers are asked to participate either virtually or in person in an event on the SUNY ESF main campus in Syracuse, NY alongside the other residents. Past residents are also asked to serve on the selection committee for the next year.
Support: The residency is jointly supported by the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment and the Cranberry Lake Biological Station
APPLICATION DETAILS:
The application is hosted through an online form. The required information for the application is provided below. You may be unable to save your application, so please be prepared to submit all information at one time. Please submit all materials as a single PDF or word document.
Brief Biography - In 500 words or less, please share your professional trajectory, skills, and any relevant background you would like to share
Applicant Proposal - A 500-word proposal that addresses the concept and direction of planned work
Importance of Cranberry Lake Biological Station
In 500 words or less, please explain how CLBS is suited to your work and how you will utilize the station and its resources.
Résumé/CV - Please include educational background, teaching, publications, awards, honors, and other pertinent experiences.
Preferred Residency Dates - You will be asked to submit your ranked choice of residency dates.
Work Samples - Please submit a work sample no longer than 10 pages.
EVAULATION: Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee made up of past recipients, Indigenous and non-Indigenous professional writers, and other qualified individuals.
This committee will make the final decision on who will be awarded residencies. The residencies can be awarded to writers at all career stages, from those who have never been published and without formal writing education to established writers with extensive education. Selection will be based on the strength of the application package.
NOTIFICATION:
Writers will be notified in mid-March whether they have been offered residency. All applicants will be notified about the final status of their application.
For questions, please reach out to Terrance Caviness at tcaviness@esf.edu
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Gotham Scriptwriting Scholarship for writers of color
Gotham Writers Workshop
DEADLINE: February 15, 2025
INFO: The Gotham Scriptwriting Scholarship is open to people of color who have an interest in writing scripts for movies, TV shows, or plays. Any level of experience is fine. All we ask is the desire to write scripts. Three scholarships will be offered.
Each scholarship includes:
Two 10-week script-related courses of the writer’s choosing
Three Intensives of the writer’s choosing
One 12-hour Mentorship, after the writer has completed at least one ten-week course
Acceptance is open to all people of color, age 18 and up. At least one spot will be awarded to a Black applicant.
Once accepted, Gotham will do a consultation to help guide the writer with their initial course selection.
There is no time limit on when all the courses must be completed.
Winners will be announced by mid March. All applicants will be notified.
v2.writingclasses.com/scholarships/scriptwriting-scholarship-2024
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call for submissions
American Black Film Festival
DEADLINE: February 28, 2025
INFO: Now celebrating its 29th year, the American Black Film Festival remains the preeminent event of its kind, empowering Black artists and spotlighting a diverse array of entertainment content created by and for individuals of African descent. An event like no other, the festival brings together enthusiasts of Black culture alongside industry executives and content creators from across the globe for five days filled with screenings, engaging talk events, exclusive parties, and invaluable networking opportunities.
This year’s festival, will take place from June 11-15 in Miami Beach.
SUBMIT YOUR WORK: The ABFF is dedicated to showcasing global film and television content created by and about people of African descent. Now accepting submissions for narratives, documentaries, series, and shorts.
AWARDS + PRIZES:
Jury Awards:
Best Narrative Feature: $2,500 cash prize
Best Actor in a Narrative Feature: $2,500 cash prize
Best Documentary Feature: $2,500 cash prize
Best Series (Television or Web): $2,500 cash prize
HBO® Short Film Award Finalists will receive:
Grand Prize Winner: $10,000 cash prize
Runner-Up Finalists (4): $5,000 cash prize each
All-expenses-paid trip to the ABFF, including round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations
Festival credentials for one filmmaker (if the film has multiple filmmakers, one must be selected to represent it) and one guest
The ABFF is an Academy Award®-qualifying festival for the HBO® Short Film category
filmfreeway.com/AmericanBlackFilmFestival
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KHN Residency
Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts (Nebraska City, NE)
DEADLINE: March 1, 2025
APPLICATION FEE: $35
INFO: The Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts awards up to seventy juried residencies per year to established and emerging visual artists, writers, composers, and interdisciplinary artists from across the country and around the world. Residencies are 2 to 8 weeks in length. Each resident receives a $175 stipend per week, housing, and a private studio.
2025 SESSIONS: July 7 - December 19, 2025
GUIDELINES: Each item will be presented as a separate form within our online application portal. Before beginning your application, download the WORK SAMPLES guidelines specific to your discipline (file links located bottom of page) and follow the directions to help prepare files. Application sections include:
General Application Information including your preferred dates and length of residency.
2 ANONYMOUS Statements: An anonymous Statement of Submitted Works that clarifies the work and/or its relevance within contemporary or historical creative practices, contemporary society/issues, or the evolution of your personal creative practice; and an anonymous Statement of Intent regarding how you intend to utilize your time and why a residency at KHN is important to you at this point in your career.
KHN utilizes a blind jury process. The ONLY items seen and reviewed by jurors are ANONYMOUS WORK SAMPLES and ANONYMOUS STATEMENTS. Jurors rate applications based solely on the quality and relevance of the submitted work and the statements' effectiveness in clarifying the work and the applicant’s intentions for a residency.
Do NOT include your NAME, CREDITS, AWARDS, UNIVERSITIES, EMPLOYERS, COLLABORATORS, COMMISSIONING OR PUBLISHING AGENTS, GALLERY OR VENUE NAMES, or any other identifying information within the statements.
ANONYMOUS Work Samples: See the guidelines PDF specific to your discipline (file links located bottom of page) to help you prepare your materials.
KHN utilizes a blind jury process. The ONLY items seen and reviewed by jurors are ANONYMOUS WORK SAMPLES and ANONYMOUS STATEMENTS. Jurors rate applications based solely on the quality and relevance of the submitted work and the statements' effectiveness in clarifying the work and the applicant’s intentions for a residency.
Do NOT include your NAME, CREDITS, AWARDS, UNIVERSITIES, EMPLOYERS, COLLABORATORS, COMMISSIONING OR PUBLISHING AGENTS, GALLERY OR VENUE NAMES within any uploaded work samples, file names, or descriptions.
References: Contact information for two professional references that are familiar with your work and your potential to be a positive member of our small community of residents.
Professional History from your current resume or CV. Your name MAY appear in the contents of this information.
Application Fee of $35 paid via credit card through the online portal. All fees must be paid through the online portal. We are unable to waive the application fee.
STIPEND, HOUSING, + TRAVEL: Residency awards come with a weekly $175 stipend. All residents are provided housing that includes a private bedroom, bathroom, and studio space. Writers and visual artists generally share an apartment with one other resident, with shared kitchen, living room, and balcony space. Composers are generally housed in a garden-level studio apartment.
All travel expenses are the responsibility of the awardee, with the exception of cab fare from Omaha or Lincoln on the day of arrival and/or departure.
There are two airports about an hour away: Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA) and the Lincoln Airport (LNK). To get from either airport to Nebraska City, residents can arrange for transportation with Nebraska City's Tree City Cab at least 24 hours prior to their arrival or departure. The taxi fare ($100 per trip) will be paid for by the Kimmel Foundation.
Residents can also consider traveling by train or bus to Lincoln or Omaha. The same arrangement with the taxi service applies. The Kansas City Airport (KCI) is two hours away. However, taxi service will not be paid for from Kansas City to Nebraska City.
WORK SAMPLE GUIDELINES FOR WRITER + POET (LITERARY) SUBMISSIONS:
Upload one PDF that contains all writing samples (up to 10MB).
Previously published or non-published material is eligible.
Only writing submitted in English will be considered.
Fiction: Submit no more than 2 short stories or novel chapters, not to exceed 7500 words in length. If a portion of a novel is submitted, a brief (100-200 word) synopsis may be included and does not count toward the 7500-word limit.
Non-fiction: Submit no more than 2 essays or chapters, not to exceed 7500 words in length. If a portion of a manuscript or book is submitted, a brief (100-200 word) synopsis may be included and does not count toward the 7500-word limit. If the work submitted is memoir or biography, the requirement to remove your name from the writing sample may be disregarded.
Poetry: Submit up to 10 poems, combined length not to exceed 30 pages.
Drama: Submit up to 2 one-act plays or up to 2 excerpts (monologues, acts, scenes) from a longer work. Include a character list and brief synopsis. Total number of pages may not exceed 30.
Screenplays: Submit no more than 2 screenplays. Include a brief synopsis. Total number of pages may not exceed 30.
Combination of Genres/Non-traditional applications: If submitting samples from more than one genre, total submission should not exceed 7500 words or thirty pages in length.
All work samples MUST be ANONYMOUS. Do NOT include your NAME, CREDITS, AWARDS, UNIVERSITIES, EMPLOYERS, COLLABORATORS, COMMISSIONING OR PUBLISHING AGENTS, or GALLERY or VENUE NAMES within any work samples or in the title/description area within Slideroom.
*If your application includes a combination of visual and literary works, please consider applying under the interdisciplinary category.
Contact us at info@khncenterforthearts.org or 402-874-9600 with any questions regarding applications or submission materials.
khncenterforthearts.org/residency
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2025 Summer Institute on Environmental Justice
Black Midwest Initiative (University of Illinois Chicago)
DEADLINE: March 7, 2025
INFO: The Black Midwest Initiative (BMI) at the University of Illinois Chicago invites applications from early-career scholars, artists, and community organizers to its 2025 Summer Institute on Environmental Justice. This convening will bring together 15 participants, designated as BMI Fellows, who are doing work around environmental justice issues affecting Black people and communities within the Midwest and Rust Belt regions of the United States for a week-long series of discussions, presentations, and workshops with leading figures in the field. In alignment with environmental sociologist and Institute facilitator David Pellow, we conceive of environmental racism as a “form of violent control over bodies, space, and knowledge systems.” Accordingly, we define the parameters of the environmental justice issues applicants might propose to address broadly—from urban agriculture, toxic emissions, natural disasters, and climate change to carcerality, housing instability, residential segregation, community health and wellness, and beyond.
After the conclusion of the Institute, each Fellow will also work to develop a project, individually or in collaboration with one or more other Fellows, that will be incorporated into the Black Midwest Justice Hub (the HUB)—a digital platform we will launch in the fall of 2026 that will serve as a resource repository for the BMI Environmental Justice Collaboratory, a set of environmental justice courses that will be taught across multiple midwestern colleges and universities during the 2026-27 academic year. HUB projects may ultimately take any number of forms that can be accessed digitally, including but not limited to short films, virtual exhibits, traditional academic papers, storymaps, graphic notes, sound recordings, oral histories, interviews, and introductory essays or lectures.
INSTITUTE FACILITATORS:
Erika Allen, Urban Growers Collective
Adrienne Brown, University of Chicago
Lydia Marie Hicks, Black Eden Arts Alliance
Fayola Jacobs, University of Minnesota
Tonika Lewis Johnson, UnBlocked Englewood
David Pellow, UC Santa Barbara
LaShawnda Crowe Storm, Indianapolis, Indiana
Monica M. White, University of Wisconsin-Madison
ELIGIBILITY:
Emerging artists of all genres (including filmmakers, dancers, poets, and other literary, visual, sound, and performance artists), community organizers and activists, graduate students, junior faculty, adjunct and non-tenure track faculty, independent scholars, and postdoctoral scholars whose work deeply engages with environmental justice issues affecting Black communities in the Midwest or Rust Belt regions of the United States (ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEBRASKA, NORTH DAKOTA, OHIO, SOUTH DAKOTA, WISCONSIN).
DETAILS OF PARTICIPATION:
Fellows from outside of the Chicago area will be expected to arrive in Chicago on Sunday, July 20, with departure scheduled for the morning of Saturday, July 26. Most days of the Institute will feature a morning session during which facilitators will discuss their work with the Fellows and an afternoon session during which the Fellows will present their work to the group. There will also be a site visit during the week to a location TBA that is engaging critical EJ work in the Chicago metro area. Fellows will be expected to attend all sessions, including the site visit and final group dinner, to complete any readings or screenings assigned by the facilitators, and to prepare a presentation of their work to be shared during one of the afternoon sessions. The Summer Institute will be hosted at the UIC Institute for the Humanities, and all sessions will be held in person.
Each Fellow will receive up to $500 toward their travel expenses to attend the Summer Institute. Lodging will be provided in UIC campus housing for all Fellows coming from outside of the Chicago area. Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day of the Institute, as well as dinner on Friday. After the conclusion of the Summer Institute, each participant will receive a $1000 stipend to be used toward the costs associated with their HUB project.
APPLICATION:
The BMI Summer Institute Application requires a 500-word project statement and a 5-page cv or resume.
Applicants will be notified of decisions by April 10.
QUESTIONS?
Please feel free to email theblackmidwest@gmail.com with any questions.
theblackmidwest.com/summer-institute
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MICROBUDGET FILM FELLOWSHIP
Reel Sisters
DEADLINES / FEES: March 8, 2025 ($25)
INFO: Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series, the first Academy qualifying festival devoted to women filmmakers, will offer you an opportunity to produce a short film or pilot for your web series!
You will receive $5,000 to produce a short film or the first episode of your web series, which you can use as a calling card to attract a producer and other film opportunities. You will be guided on your journey in learning the art of creating a high-quality micro budget short film. Story is Queen.
Be prepared to begin production and shooting of your film or web series project shortly after you are selected as a Reel Sisters Fellow!
GENRES: Animation, Documentary, Narrative, Comedy & Sci-Fi. You will retain full production and copyrights to your film. You must include Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series in your production credits as a supporter.
AWARDS + PRIZES:
$5,000 to direct and produce the first episode of your micro budget film.
Announced as the Winner on Reel Sisters & African Voices websites. A feature will also be published in African Voices magazine.
Your Web Series Pilot will premiere on Reel Sisters Tea & Cinema online series and your film will have a world premiere in our annual film festival.
Under the guidance of a mentor, you will revise your production schedule and begin development.
Full scholarship to Scriptwriting Essentials: The Art of Creating Strong Female Characters™ (Instruction value: $800). Any script revisions will be done in our workshop series.
One on one consultation with mentors who will guide you in how to produce your first micro budget film.
Reel Sisters will assist in securing distribution opportunities and marketing support.
One Year Membership to African Voices/Reel Sisters (Includes free magazine subscription and discount to our programs).
ELIGIBILITY: Script must be written or co-written by a woman of color and non-binary filmmakers of color. Reel Sisters will accept submissions by women of African, Caribbean, Latina, Asian, Indian, Arab and Native American Descent. Please include your ethnicity in the application to confirm your eligibility. We encourage writing teams to apply. You must be located within the U.S. , Puerto Rico or Caribbean Islands.
REEL SISTERS APPLICATION GUIDELINES:
Your application must include the following information to be complete. Thank you for submitting your short screenplay project in consideration for our Reel Sisters Micro Budget Film Fellowship! Please upload the following application information with your script.
Introduction (700 words max): Briefly tell us about your journey as a storyteller. Share information about what led you to writing and filmmaking as a career. Share your inspiration for creating the short screenplay project and the audience you would like to reach. Describe how the Reel Sisters Micro Budget Film Fellowship would make a difference in your career.
LOGLINE: (75 words max): a one to two-sentence description of the story.
SYNOPSIS: (350 words max): brief summary of the plot of the script. Please include all major characters and story points, including the ending.
PILOT WEB SERIES SCREENPLAY (no longer than 15 pages)
Length – no longer than fifteen (15) pages. This does not include the title page.
Limited to one (1) main location (INT or EXT). If you use more than one location, explain in your application any donated space or ability to accommodate additional locations on a micro budget project.
Written in English (Translated scripts are welcomed as long as you are the author).
Writing teams are welcomed but one member must be a woman of color.
Include a title page displaying only title of screenplay and name of credited writer(s)
Submit only original screenplays. The rights must be wholly original with and owned by the writer
Submit as a pdf file and must meet all standard screenplay format guidelines
Include 1 page draft of your Production Schedule. It will be revised if you are accepted as a Fellow.
Submissions will be evaluated with the following criteria:
PLOT: Create compelling richly textured characters. Films with strong female roles are encouraged.
CHARACTERS: Quirky and original characters that are relatable. Give us three dimensional protagonists and antagonists. PRO TIP: “Every villain has someone who loves him,” Steve Carter, playwright.
ORIGINALITY: Create bold characters that the world has not seen before. Take risks and experiment with visual and written language on the screen and page. Hook the viewer in the first five pages of your script.
reelsisters.org/apply-reel-sisters-fellowship-2025/
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2025-2026 emerging writer fellowship
GrubStreet (Boston, MA)
DEADLINE: March 10, 2025
INFO: The Emerging Writer Fellowship aims to develop new, exciting voices by providing three writers per year tuition-free access to GrubStreet’s classes and several key publishing/industry events. Over the course of one year, each Emerging Writer Fellow will attend a combination of seminars and multi-week courses of their choosing, along with a wide selection of other topical programming, in order to enhance their understanding of craft and the publishing industry.
We hope that this year's fellows will be able to join us in-person for classes and events. Priority will be given to applicants who will be able to join us in Boston.
OVERVIEW: The Emerging Writer Fellowship will be awarded to three writers who demonstrate a passion for writing, a commitment to developing their writing abilities, and financial need. Any person 18 and older who demonstrates ability and passion for writing is eligible.
The Emerging Writer Fellowship will provide access to each of the following:
5 multi-week courses
5 three-hour seminars
Access to key annual industry events and other craft-related programs.
Access to GrubStreet's Artistic Director and/or other program staff members for quarterly (or as-needed) office hours for personalized mentorship. (Optional)
At the end of the program, fellows will also receive a complimentary one-year GrubStreet membership so they can continue enjoying extra community perks even after their program year ends.
The fellowship year begins in May.
WHO SHOULD APPLY: This fellowship is open to anyone 18 and older with a passion for writing. The fellowship specifically aims to assist writers in need of financial assistance in reaching their writing goals. We particularly encourage writers of color, ethnic minorities, those who identify as LGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and other members of communities historically underrepresented by the literary community to apply.
WHY WE CREATED THIS FELLOWSHIP: Over the years, GrubStreet encountered more and more people who loved to write but didn't have the money to invest in a creative writing education that would help advance their craft or give them a thoughtful introduction to the publishing world. As part of its mission to make sure that voices of every type and talent are heard, GrubStreet developed the Emerging Writer Fellowship to eliminate some of the financial barriers to entry. Through this program, we hope to connect writers to a literary world – a world made richer and more relevant with the contribution of these voices.
In the program's first year, we were able to offer one fellowship to one student. As of the 2018-2019 cycle, we were able to begin offering a second fellowship in memory of novelist Anita Shreve, longtime board member and dear friend of GrubStreet. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, we now offer three fellowships each year.
HOW TO APPLY:
The Emerging Writer Fellowship Application Form will require the following:
A sample of your writing that demonstrates your artistic style and voice. 5-10 pages for prose, screenwriting, or playwriting. 3-7 pages for poetry.
A personal statement—no more than 500 words please!—which should include the following:
How you envision using the fellowship.
A description of your relationship to writing. By this we mean: what excites you about it? What does it mean to you personally?
How the fellowship will help you in your growth and success as a writer.
Your writing and workshop history (Note: Prior workshop experience at GrubStreet is not required).
The Fellowship year begins in May.
All applicants can expect to hear back by early May.
grubstreet.org/write/emerging-writer-fellowship
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LGBTQIA+ Literary Success Grants
Georgia Writers
DEADLINE: March 10, 2025 BY 11:59 pm ET
INFO: Georgia Writers’ LGBTQIA+ Literary Success Grants, modeled on our John Lewis Grants, are designed to encourage and amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ youth (18-24) in Georgia. At a time when the country possesses a record number of anti-LGBTQ legislation (400+ bills and counting), we believe it is our responsibility to promote positive stories of queer life in the South. By promoting young queer voices state- and nationwide, we offer models for success that all young queer people in the state of Georgia can aspire to.
Generously supported by the Alliance for Full Acceptance (AFFA), the LGBTQIA+ Literary Success Grants will be awarded annually in the categories of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and screenwriting. The purpose of the grants is to elevate, encourage, and inspire the voices of young queer writers in Georgia.
THE GRANTS:
Winners in each genre will receive:
A grant of $500 to give a reading at our Red Clay Writers Conference
A scholarship to the next annual Red Clay Writers Conference
QUALIFICATIONS:
Applicants must be 18 - 24 years of age and emerging writers who are queer residents of Georgia for at least one year, or full-time students at a Georgia college or university at the time of application and on the date of the award.
Applicants are ineligible if they have published more than one traditionally published book. Promising writers without publication will be considered. Writers who are eligible may apply annually but may only win a grant once. There is no submission fee to enter.
Applications will be reviewed anonymously.
Applicants are ineligible if they are of relations to any of the Georgia Writers staff or board of directors.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Writers may apply in only one genre and must submit the following:
A completed grant application
An essay of no more tha 500 words as a concise description of your work and goals as a writer. Please tell us what inspires or challenges your writing career.
No more than a ten-page writing sample of a published or unpublished piece in the genre in which you are applying--fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or screenwriting. If submitting poetry, one poem per page please.
Please format your manuscript: 12 pt. font, double-spaced, name and page number on each page.
georgiawriters.org/literarysuccess
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BAYARD RUSTIN RESIDENCY
Penington Friends House (New York City)
DEADLINE: March 15, 2025
INFO: Building on the social activist history of Penington’s founders, original board, and later residents, the Bayard Rustin Residency at Penington Friends House (PFH) is envisioned as an ongoing ladder to empowerment for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) working to end Systemic Racism and to create a culture of anti-Racism and intersectional equality in the United States of America. It is also intended to extend and strengthen the wider Quaker witness to equality.
Beginning in September of 2025, this residency will provide up to one year of room and board to a person who demonstrates a strong project that addresses ending Systemic Racism and who has a necessity to be in New York City for up to one year. They will reside at the Penington Friends House located in New York City’s Lower East Side of Manhattan. The Bayard Rustin Resident will demonstrate a need to live in Manhattan. Areas of focus of their work can include activism in the arts, policy change, human rights, community organizing, and other areas of activism focusing on ending racism and strengthening equality. Residents will meet regularly with the Residency Manager and will be expected to share their progress with the New York City community in the form of presentations or workshops.
The resident does not have to be Quaker but their work should be shaped by and in harmony with our tenets of Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship. The resident will be expected to be a full-time resident of PFH and be participating member of this intentional community. This includes eating chef prepared dinners with the other residents and participating in shared light house chores. ( 1 1/2 hour commitment per week on average.) The Penington Friends House’s approach to living collaboratively may be new to you. We encourage to look at our website and instagram account (@Penington_friends_house) to gain a better understanding of what we are. Feel free to call us as well with questions. We are LGBTQ embracing community. We believe Black Lives Matter. We are always working to be a safe space and an anti-racist community.
Resident selection is made through a BIPOC committee of Quakers and non-Quakers and is based on the strength of the applicants work and proposed project. Final approval of the Bayard Rustin resident is made by the Penington Friends House Residents and staff, in the same interview process that all other residents are approved to live at the Penington. Applicants should note that the Bayard Rustin Resident bedroom is on the 4th floor of an historic Brownstone. An elevator is not available. Bathrooms are shared with other floor residents. This residency covers the cost of rent, boarding (food) provided 5 nights a week, internet, cable, and heat/AC. Limited access ( starting at 3:30PM weekedays) to a studio space may be available. A stipend is NOT currently provided by this residency.
Here are a few types of artists and activists activities that we would be interested in considering. Please contact us before applying if you are not sure your project would fit our call. Questions can be directed to Todd Drake at outreach at penington dot org.
An artist working on a body of art that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
A writer working on a new book, play, screenplay, or collection that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
A performer creating a new dance piece that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
A community based artist designing or carrying out a community based project that addresses racism and/or intersectional issues.
An activist organizing communities to address racism and/or intersectional issues.
A social entrepreneur that is starting a non-profit focused on addressing racism and/or intersectional issues.
An inventor or designer working on solving a problem associated with systemic racism and/or intersectional issues.
A graduate student that has a strong and well defined anti-racism project that needs support and time to launch.
BACKGROUND: The residency is named after Bayard Rustin who was a Quaker and an attender at 15th Street Monthly Meeting in New York City. This meeting (Quaker house of worship) is next to the Penington Friends House. Rustin worked commitedly for the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. He was an advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on nonviolence. Rustin was also a chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom and a founding member of the Freedom Riders. He was an early advocate for gay rights. Rustin’s later work included a heavy focus on refugee affairs. Rustin served as Vice Chairman of the International Rescue Committee, helped to found the National Emergency Coalition for Haitian Refugees, and was Chairman of the Executive Committee of Freedom House. He died in 1987. In 2013, President Barack Obama posthumously awarded Rustin the Presidential Medal of Freedom. ( Source rustinfund.org)
We are currently accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Bayard Rustin Residency. This is our 5th Bayard Residency.
The Bayard Rustin Residency is supported with funds from the Society of Friends (Quakers) New York Yearly Meeting, the New York Quarterly Meeting, the Brooklyn Monthly Meeting, the Mertz-Gilmore Foundation, and the Board of Penington Friends House. Donations are currently being accepted.