CREATIVE CAPITAL AWARD
Creative Capital
DEADLINE: April 3, 2025
INFO: The Creative Capital Award provides individual artists with unrestricted project grants for the creation of bold, innovative, original, and imaginative new artistic works. In addition to unrestricted project grants from $15,000 up to $50,000, the Award offers transformative professional development support including strategic advising, peer mentorship, industry connections, and community-building opportunities. Grants are awarded via a national, democratic, open call, external review process.
For the 2026 grant cycle, Creative Capital invites professional artists to propose experimental, original, bold new works in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Film, and Literature. Multidisciplinary, technology, and/or socially engaged projects are welcome in all disciplinary categories. Creative Capital seeks project proposals for formally and/or conceptually innovative works in all disciplines, including, but not limited to, painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, video and multimedia, dance, theater, playwriting, jazz, opera, music, experimental film, documentary and narrative film, poetry, and fiction.
Creative Capital welcomes a full range of artistic approaches and thematic inquiries, including boundary-pushing formal explorations, as well as projects that engage urgent social issues of our time. Creative Capital also seeks new projects or works addressing subjects that Creative Capital has not previously funded. For example, for this grant cycle, Creative Capital also seeks strong visual arts projects dealing with fentanyl, veterans/military, or wealth inequality.
The Creative Capital Award seeks project proposals in the following disciplines:
Visual Arts: architecture & design, craft, drawing & illustration, ecological art, installation, painting & printmaking, performance art, photography, public art, sculpture, social practice, sound art, video art, technology, and socially-engaged visual art
Performing Arts: dance, jazz, multimedia performance, music, musical theater, opera, theater, playwriting, technology, and socially-engaged performing arts
Film: animation, documentary film, experimental film, and narrative film
Literature: fiction, nonfiction, and poetry
A diverse cohort of approximately 50 artists will be selected for the Creative Capital Award through an external review process. Our goal is to support artists and new works across a range of disciplines, themes and ideas, geographic regions, identities, ages, and career stages. See recent Creative Capital Awardees and Projects for 2025, 2024, and 2023.
Creative Capital’s transformative giving approach is built on the principle that artists need funding as well as networks and advisory services in order to realize ambitious projects and build thriving careers. Recipients of the Creative Capital Award receive access to a full range of professional development services over a five-year period. These services include strategic planning, legal and financial advising, marketing and communications strategy, peer mentorship, and industry networking opportunities.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
ROUND I: Project Proposal
Creative Capital welcomes project proposals for original, imaginative, impactful new artistic works in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Film, and Literature. Multidisciplinary, technology, and/or socially-engaged projects are welcome in every category.
Along with a project title, one line project description (50 words max), project description (500 words max), bio, resume, and artist website (recommended), applicants will answer the following questions:
Creative Capital supports formally and conceptually innovative and experimental work. How does your project idea take an original and imaginative approach to content and form? (150 words / 1,000 characters max)
Place your work in context. What are the main influences upon your work as an artist? How does your past work inform your current project? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
What kind of impact do you hope your project will have, and why? What specific audiences and/or communities will the project engage? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
Creative Capital awards artists at catalytic moments in their careers. How is this a catalytic moment in your practice? How will your proposed project or new work act as a catalyst for your artistic and professional growth? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
Creative Capital provides professional development services and community-building opportunities for awardees and encourages a spirit of mutual generosity and exchange among our artists. How would this support and being part of the Creative Capital community be impactful for you? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
In addition, applicants will submit one (1) work sample from a completed, past work.
Visual Arts applicants will submit one Image Sample or Video Sample.
Performing Arts applicants will submit one Video Sample.
Film applicants will submit one Video Sample.
Literature applicants will submit one Writing Sample.
ROUND II: Project Details
Applicants selected by our external reviewers to advance to Round II will submit additional materials to support their application:
Project itemized budget
Project timeline (1 page)
Work samples (see Application Handbook for guidelines)
Proof of eligibility
ROUND III: Panel Review
Applicants selected by our external reviewers to advance to Round III will be asked to:
Confirm collaborators (if applicable)
Submit project updates (optional, 100 words max)
Full application guidelines are outlined in the Application Handbook.
2026 OPEN CALL APPLICATION TIMESLINE:
These dates may change.
March 3, 2025: Round I application portal opens
April 3, 2025 at 3:00 PM Eastern Time: Round I application deadline
June 2025: Notification of advancement to Round II
September 2025: Notification of advancement to Round III: Final Panel Review
Early 2026: Public announcement of 2026 Creative Capital Awards and State of the Art Prizes
Artist Eligibility
US citizen, permanent legal resident, O-1 visa holder, or Tribal ID holder
At least 25 years old by application deadline
Working artist(s) with at least 5 years of professional artistic practice within their chosen discipline
Applicant may not be enrolled in a degree-granting program
May not apply to the Andy Warhol Foundation Arts Writers Grant program in the same year
May not have previously received a Creative Capital Award
May not be an applicant or collaborator on more than one proposed project per year
State of the Art Prize recipients must be a resident of the state they are awarded in through February 1, 2026. Prize recipients must provide proof of residence in the state or territory to receive the grant.
Projects that are not eligible
Projects whose main purpose is promotional
Project is to fund ongoing operations of existing business or nonprofit organization
Curation or documentation of existing work
Projects that will premiere or be completed before October 1, 2026
More questions? Email awards@creative-capital.org. No phone calls please.
creative-capital.org/about-the-creative-capital-award
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THE STATE OF THE ART PRIZE
Creative Capital
DEADLINE: April 3, 2025
INFO: Through the 2026 Open Call process for the Creative Capital Award, Creative Capital will also select recipients of the State of the Art Prize, a new national, two-year initiative, which aims to recognize one artist residing in each U.S. state and its territories, with an unrestricted grant of $10,000 per artist. All applicants to the Creative Capital Award will be automatically considered for the State of the Art Prize and will be evaluated for the Prize using the same criteria; there is no separate application process. State of the Art Prize recipients will also have access to a suite of online professional development resources, including the Creative Capital Curriculum and Artist Labs, Artist Opportunities, and online community-building opportunities.
State of the Art Prize recipients may apply again to future open calls for the Creative Capital Award. However, artists who have already received the Creative Capital Award may not apply for the State of the Art Prize. Both the State of the Art Prize and the Creative Capital Award are one-time awards.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
ROUND I: Project Proposal
Creative Capital welcomes project proposals for original, imaginative, impactful new artistic works in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Film, and Literature. Multidisciplinary, technology, and/or socially-engaged projects are welcome in every category.
Along with a project title, one line project description (50 words max), project description (500 words max), bio, resume, and artist website (recommended), applicants will answer the following questions:
Creative Capital supports formally and conceptually innovative and experimental work. How does your project idea take an original and imaginative approach to content and form? (150 words / 1,000 characters max)
Place your work in context. What are the main influences upon your work as an artist? How does your past work inform your current project? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
What kind of impact do you hope your project will have, and why? What specific audiences and/or communities will the project engage? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
Creative Capital awards artists at catalytic moments in their careers. How is this a catalytic moment in your practice? How will your proposed project or new work act as a catalyst for your artistic and professional growth? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
Creative Capital provides professional development services and community-building opportunities for awardees and encourages a spirit of mutual generosity and exchange among our artists. How would this support and being part of the Creative Capital community be impactful for you? (150 words / 1,000 character max)
In addition, applicants will submit one (1) work sample from a completed, past work.
Visual Arts applicants will submit one Image Sample or Video Sample.
Performing Arts applicants will submit one Video Sample.
Film applicants will submit one Video Sample.
Literature applicants will submit one Writing Sample.
ROUND II: Project Details
Applicants selected by our external reviewers to advance to Round II will submit additional materials to support their application:
Project itemized budget
Project timeline (1 page)
Work samples (see Application Handbook for guidelines)
Proof of eligibility
ROUND III: Panel Review
Applicants selected by our external reviewers to advance to Round III will be asked to:
Confirm collaborators (if applicable)
Submit project updates (optional, 100 words max)
2026 OPEN CALL APPLICATION TIMNLINE:
These dates may change.
March 3, 2025: Round I application portal opens
April 3, 2025 at 3:00 PM Eastern Time: Round I application deadline
June 2025: Notification of advancement to Round II
September 2025: Notification of advancement to Round III: Final Panel Review
Early 2026: Public announcement of 2026 Creative Capital Awards and State of the Art Prizes
Artist Eligibility
US citizen, permanent legal resident, O-1 visa holder, or Tribal ID holder
At least 25 years old by application deadline
Working artist(s) with at least 5 years of professional artistic practice within their chosen discipline
Applicant may not be enrolled in a degree-granting program
May not apply to the Andy Warhol Foundation Arts Writers Grant program in the same year
May not have previously received a Creative Capital Award
May not be an applicant or collaborator on more than one proposed project per year
State of the Art Prize recipients must be a resident of the state they are awarded in through February 1, 2026. Prize recipients must provide proof of residence in the state or territory to receive the grant.
Projects that are not eligible
Projects whose main purpose is promotional
Project is to fund ongoing operations of existing business or nonprofit organization
Curation or documentation of existing work
Projects that will premiere or be completed before October 1, 2026
More questions? Email awards@creative-capital.org. No phone calls please.
creative-capital.org/about-the-creative-capital-award
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GRANTS FOR EARLY CAREER NEW YORK CITY + MINNESOTA-BASED FILM DIRECTORS
Jerome Foundation
DEADLINE: April 3, 2025 (before 4pm CT / 5pm ET)
INFO: Jerome Foundation’s New York City and Minnesota Film Production Grants support early career film directors with grants up to $30,000 for short or long-form film projects in the ever-expanding creative genres of experimental, narrative, animation, or documentary genres or in any hybrid combination of these forms.
The Foundation seeks to fund filmmakers who take creative risks, seek innovative approaches, have a clarity of purpose and vision for imaginative storytelling, are engaged directly with those involved in their filmmaking, and work to build relationships with and impact their creative community and the field.
Applicants must be early career film directors in their 2nd–10th year in the field who have at least two completed film projects (a minimum of 10 minutes total running time) and no more than 2 feature-length film directing credits for fully produced works (running time of 50+ minutes or more per film). Applicants may not be enrolled in a degree program or a tenured professor. Formal training in degree-granting programs is neither expected nor required. The 2025 program supports film projects that will be in production between November 2025 and April 2027.
Jerome Foundation’s Minnesota Filmmaker Mentorship Grants support early career filmmakers with up to $10,000 for self-designed mentorship opportunities with experienced directors or other film professionals to strengthen early career filmmakers directing craft and/or professional skills in connection with a specific film project in short and/or long form experimental, narrative, animation or documentary genres, or in any hybrid combination of these forms.
This grant is for early career film directors with at least 2 years (i.e., not beginning filmmakers) but no more than 10 years, of experience directing their own films in documentary, narrative, experimental or animation, or any hybrid combination of these genres. The priority for this mentorship grant is to support directors in their 2nd–5th year in the field. Applicants may not be enrolled in a degree program or a tenured professor. Formal training in degree-granting programs is neither expected nor required.
Detailed eligibility requirements are different for each grant program—potential applicants should consult the relevant program information before applying.
jeromefdn.org/film-production-and-mentorship-grants
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SITKA RESIDENCY
The Sitka Center for Art and Ecology (Otis, OR)
DEADLINE: April 4, 2025
APPLICATION FEE: $30
INFO: Sitka residencies provide time and space for self-paced work and reflection in an inspiring natural setting. Residents from a broad range of art, writing, performance, science, education and interdisciplinary practices come to Sitka to create and explore away from the familiar contexts and constraints of daily routines, and free from external expectations.
Sitka Residencies offer dedicated time and space for artists, writers, scientists, educators and interdisciplinary creators to immerse themselves in independent work amid the remarkable ecology of Cascade Head and the Oregon coast.
Sitka residents enjoy solitude as well as opportunities for self-directed exchange and collaboration in a supportive environment, free from outside pressures, drawing inspiration from a landscape that invites discovery, reflection and renewal.
Residencies, ranging from two weeks to three months between October and May, are awarded through an annual juried process and provided free of charge. Some Sitka residents also receive living and travel stipends as part of their awards.
RESIDENCY DETAILS:
Facilities
Each resident is provided with private living and, if needed, studio space. Residences include living, sleeping, bathroom and kitchen areas, equipped for basic cooking. Laundry facilities are available on campus. Wi-Fi is provided in both residences and studios. Residents are responsible for their own transportation, food and supplies.
The Sitka Center is a non-smoking and non-vaping environment. Please avoid strong scents, as some individuals have allergies. Candles and incense are not permitted. Pets are not allowed on Sitka’s main campus or at our 80 acre nature preserve.
Sitka is family-friendly, and partners are welcome to stay or visit. Please inform the Sitka office if you have overnight visitors.
We are located about seven miles from the nearest grocery store, in Lincoln City, a small coastal town. The area receives about 98 inches of rain annually, so rain gear is essential for outdoor activities.
Cost
Living and studio spaces are provided free of charge. There is a $30 application fee to cover administrative costs. Residents are responsible for their own travel, food, supplies and other expenses. If the application fee is a barrier, please contact Sitka at info@sitkacenter.org for a fee waiver.
Accessibility
Sitka’s studios, office and library are ADA accessible, with one ADA-compliant cabin. Some areas on our steep campus may be less accessible. Please contact us with any specific needs or concerns. Certified service animals are welcome with prior disclosure and permission. Sitka has housing options for families with children of different ages or residents who are caretakers. Please indicate any housing needs in your application. Sitka has an extremely limited ability to host a pet or emotional support animal in a single off-campus cabin. Please do not count on being able to bring your pet when you apply.
Collaborations
Collaborating teams should submit one application. Please note if you will need sperate sleeping accommodations.
Studio Supplies and Materials
Sitka provides basic studio equipment, including easels, task lights, tables, and chairs, as well as a printing press and a small ceramics studio. Residents must bring their own materials for their work, and we can discuss specific needs ahead of time.
Solitude and Engagement
Residents can engage with other residents and the local community in their own ways. We host a Zoom Resident Talk event where each resident shares their work. Participation is encouraged but not required.
Expectations
Residents are asked to present at a Resident Talk event, complete an exit survey and leave their assigned residence and studio clean and in the same condition as when they arrived. There are no expectations regarding creative or scientific productivity and no culminating report or presentation is required.
Commitment to Equity
The Sitka Center for Art and Ecology affords equal opportunities to applicants without regard to age, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to equity and inclusion and believe different voices and perspectives strengthen our organization and amplify Sitka’s impact.
MATERIALS NEEDED TO APPLY:
References – Name and contact information (your references will be sent a form to complete).
Application – Complete responses to all application questions.
Resume – Submit as a .doc, .docx or .pdf file.
Work Samples – Provide examples of your current work in formats that best showcase your practice.
Visual artists, designers and architects: 8-10 high quality images of your most current work.
Creative writers, journalists, playwrights and poets: 2 writing samples of up to 10 pages. For shorter works (poetry, short prose, etc.), submit 4 samples of up to 5 pages each. Excerpts are accepted for all writing forms. (.doc, .docx or .pdf)
Scientists: Any combination of images, files and text that reflects your most current work, up to 6 images or files (if applicable) and up to 2 writing samples (up to 10 pages each) (.doc, .docx or .pdf).
Musicians, composers, performers and Film Makers: 2-4 audio or video files (mp3, video files or links) of your most recent work. Excerpts are encouraged for longer works.
Curators, educators and social practice artists: Any combination of images, files and text that reflects your most current work, up to 6 images or files and up to 2 writing samples of a maximum of 10 pages each.
Interdisciplinary practitioners: Any combination of images, files and text that reflects your most current work, up to 6 images or files and up to 2 writing samples of a maximum of 10 pages each.
sitkacenter.org/residency-at-sitka/
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PBS IGNITE FILMMAKERS PROGRAM - CREATIVE VOICES INITIATIVE
PBS
DEADLINE: April 6, 2025
INFO: PBS provides a service to all Americans by presenting programs that share a wide variety of perspectives and lived experiences. We also strive to elevate talented individuals from a variety of backgrounds to innovate and deliver on our mission.
The PBS Ignite Filmmakers Program under its Creative Voices Initiative is a hybrid 12-month program for up to 10 early-career filmmakers who have experienced barriers to entering the media industry. It is an opportunity for filmmakers to spend a year developing their career path and exploring the process of content production for public media. Whether applicants have a current project underway or are looking to start a new one, this program provides tools to help support participants’ professional path forward.
PROGRAM OFFERINGS:
Workshops: Filmmakers meet monthly for virtual workshops delivered by seasoned professionals to further equip the participants with the necessary skills to advance their careers in public media. Topics may include crafting treatments and proposals, pitching, budgeting, funding strategies, story development, licensing, distribution, and standards & practices. Filmmakers are given and must complete workshop assignments over the course of the program.
Mentorship: Each participant receives one-on-one mentorship from professionals with rich experience in public media who will share insights and provide guidance to help mentees advance toward their filmmaking goals.
Networking: PBS Ignite provides opportunities to network with public media senior leadership and executives through both virtual and in-person sessions.
Cohort Support: Participants will be a part of monthly, virtual facilitated cohort meetings designed to build connections, engagement, and empowerment.
In-person gatherings: The Ignite Program convenes at the PBS Annual Meeting May 19 - 21, 2025, which takes place in Atlanta. Participants of the Program receive complimentary access, participation in closed meetings with PBS leadership and staff, a customized session itinerary and networking mixers. Roundtrip travel and accommodation are provided by PBS. There are other opportunities for gatherings throughout the year.
STIPEND: Those selected will receive $10,000 for their participation to be distributed over the course of the 12-month Program.
PBS EPISODE PITCH + POSSIBLE PRODUCTION: During the latter part of the program, filmmakers will be able to pitch an episode concept for consideration for one of the pre-selected PBS Digital Studios series. If the pitch is accepted, the participant will have the opportunity to produce/direct the episode under the direction of the show's production team.
TIME COMMITMENT: Participants should be prepared to spend up to 12 hours per month on meetings, assignments, and other activities.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Self-identify as an early career filmmaker
Producer or director (credited) on at least 2 short or feature documentary films, or unscripted / non-fiction films that have been distributed publicly through a third party (accepted at a film festival, streaming/television broadcast or public event). This does not include films that were a part of a student production.
Ignite participants must be available in-person May 19 - 21, 2025 at the PBS Annual Meeting in Atlanta.
The mission of this program is to support filmmakers and content creators who have experienced barriers to entering the media industry including those who can bring lesser-known stories or insightful perspectives to the media industry. Applicants should be prepared to share their background/experiences and how they believe it fulfills this mission.
Applicants must reside in the United States during the program.
There will be special consideration for applicants with experience or work history demonstrating their commitment to public media
pbs.org/about/producing-pbs/ignite-filmmaker/
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Brown Handler Residency
Friends of the San Francisco Library
DEADLINE: April 6, 2025 at 11:59pm PST
INFO: Friends of the San Francisco Public Library (Friends) is pleased to announce this year’s application for the 2025-2026 Brown Handler Residency. Created by Lisa Brown and Daniel Handler in 2018, this residency supports the creative expression of diverse San Francisco-based writers, offering time, space, and a connection to the public through the Library. The Brown-Handler Residency offers five San Francisco writers a free, year-long studio space, a connection to the SF Public Library system, and opportunities to engage the public through literary programming.
Reflecting the Library’s mission as a democratic, public, and accessible institution, we are committed to supporting writers from a wide spectrum of ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation, ability, and genre.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
Residencies will be offered to five San Francisco-based writers for one year, open to:
Fiction writers
Nonfiction writers
Children’s writers and illustrators
Poets
Playwrights/screenwriters
Both emerging and established writers are welcome to apply. Priority will be given to applicants who can most benefit from access to space, support, and connection.
There is no cash award offered for the residency.
There is no requirement to publish a work at the end of the residency, but candidates must be
working on a personally significant project.
Residents will be required to participate in at least two Library events and programs.
THE SPACE:
The writing space is located at the office of the Friends of the San Francisco Public Library at 1630 17th Street, San Francisco, CA 94107 (between Carolina & Wisconsin). It is a rich, supportive environment with Friends staff working during regular business hours. The large writing space is in the front of the office, with a vast window overlooking Jackson Park. The back of the building houses thousands of donated books, sold to support the Library’s programs and services.
It is important that residents can work well in an office community of this arrangement. The office will not be perfectly quiet nor without exciting bustle. Residents will have 24-hour access to the space, though, seven days a week — plenty of quiet time without staff around.
BENEFITS:
Dedicated, free space to focus on your creative work 24-hour access to Friends’ writing salon conveniently located near Potrero Hill Storage, printers, copier, kitchen, bathrooms, free access to the internet, and a Friends’ email address for business use, if desired
RELATIONSHIP WITH THE SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY:
As the Library is a public place, it cannot designate a permanent space for a writer. However, residents can be paired with neighborhood library branches in relationships of support and exchange. Residents often have relationships with a library “host branch,” and Friends’ staff will help facilitate the relationship to ensure a quality experience as a “special author” at select branches.
Opportunities are available for residents to participate in library programs and activities that promote their work and public engagement with writing. (i.e. toddler and children’s reading circles; teen book clubs; branch literary and cultural events; and special readings/activities designed by you and the Library staff)
PROMOTION:
Marketing and social media exposure through Friends’ Communications Department and the Public Relations Department of the Library Readings at books sales and events coordinated by SFPL or Friends
friendssfpl.org/residency.html
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THE WRITERS LAB INTERNATIONAL
The Writers Lab
DEADLINES / FEES:
Regular - April 1, 2025 ($65)
Late - April 8, 2025 ($80)
INFO: TWL Int’l (formerly known as TWL US) is a retreat in New York City focusing on craft and career development for women and nonbinary screenwriters 40+.
The Writers Lab Int’l 2025 is a four-day retreat, conducted in-person in New York City. Writers undergo deep development work on their projects in one-on-one and group sessions, with revision guidance and career support from the experienced TWL team and some of the industry’s best writers and producers. Shared meals and group activities provide an opportunity for broader conversations and creative exchange. Writers selected to participate are expected to provide their own transportation to and from New York City. TWL provides accommodation and food at the retreat venue.
The Writers Lab Int’l is produced by co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilonand is presented in collaboration with the Writers Guild of America East, with in-kind support from The Black List, Falco Ink, Film Fatales, New York Women in Film & Television and Roadmap Writers.
The Writers Lab, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit institution supported by Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman, Natalie Portman, the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation, the Lynch Hall Charitable Fund and the Lisa Cleff Kurtz & Michael Kurtz Foundation.
BENEFITS:
Participating writers gain:
Individualized feedback, insights and guidance on their selected project and their craft;
Understanding of industry standards, practices, expectations and predilections, and strategies and resources for navigating them;
Extensive ongoing alumnae support, including a community of peers and a network of relationships that can extend well beyond the program;
Exposure and opportunities beyond the Lab;
Resources and year-round supplemental programming of The Writers Lab.
The Lab aims to build skills, confidence and community, and to prepare writers for collaborative work and market demands.
The Writers Lab network of producing, partnering and supporting entities has included:
TWL co-founders Elizabeth Kaiden and Nitza Wilon.
New York Women in Film & Television, The Writers Guild of America East, The Black List, Falco Ink, Film Fatales and Roadmap Writers.
Untamed Stories and producers Julia Berg and Ruth Spencer; the Female Eye Film Festival and Firecracker Department.
Mentors & Speakers: Anne Carey (20th Century Women), Fernanda Coppel (Queen of the South), Anya Epstein (The Affair), Susan Cartsonis (What Women Want), Lisa Cortés (Precious), Amy Fox (The Conners), Daniela Gonzalez (Good Fear Content), Pamela Gray (A Walk on the Moon), Rita Hsaio (Mulan), Melissa James Gibson (House of Cards), Jennifer Kassabian (Carter), Meg LeFauve (Inside Out), Robina Lord-Stafford (Moonshine), Amenya Makuku (Madeline's Madeline), Riva Marker (Beasts of No Nation), Leah Meyerhoff (Film Fatales, I Believe in Unicorns), Gina Prince-Blythewood (The Woman King), Erica Saleh (One of Us is Lying), Tracey Scott Wilson (The Americans), Susan Seidelman (Desperately Seeking Susan), Mary Jane Skalski (The Station Agent), Kiwi Smith (Legally Blonde), Shelby Stone (The Chi), Robin Swicord (Memoirs of a Geisha), Frida Torresblanco (Pan's Labyrinth), Pat Verducci (True Crime), Anna Winger(Unorthodox), Jamie Zelermyer (Focus Features).
writers.coverfly.com/competitions/view/the-writers-lab-intl
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JUSTFILMS GRANTS
Ford Foundation
DEADLINE: April 10, 2025 by 11:59pm ET
INFO: Through its open call, JustFilms supports artist-driven, feature-length documentary films that creatively intersect with the social justice issues that are central to the Ford Foundation’s mission. All projects submitted for JustFilms grants will be assessed on the basis of alignment with Ford Foundation priorities, intersectional representation, innovation in storytelling, and production viability & independence, as well as social and cultural impact. At this time, we do not accept unsolicited Letters of Inquiry (LOI), proposals from organizations, or for impact campaigns.
While we welcome submissions from any region of the world, we have a particular focus on the areas where the foundation has regional offices. We support 25-30 new feature documentary film projects, at all stages of production, through annual grants.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
To be considered for funding, your project must be a documentary feature film (running time of at least 50 minutes) in which the filmmaker/s have creative control. We welcome applications for direct content development, production, or post-production.
The open call does not support student films, narrative films, short films, commissioned films where the filmmaker is not the rights holder to the project, episodic series, new media (AR, VR), podcasts, films that have already premiered or broadcast, or impact or outreach campaigns.
EVALUATIVE CRITERIA + RUBRIC:
When evaluating production submissions for grant funding, reviewers will use the following weighted criteria to prioritize recommended projects:
Foundation’s Thematic Alignment (30%): Assess whether the project aligns with the JustFilms strategy. Evaluate how well the project addresses gender, race, and disability justice themes. Does the project offer an analysis of political, economic, or cultural power? Also, consider whether the project aligns with other Ford program strategies or regional offices’ priorities.
Intersectional Representation (25%): Assess the project’s ability to provide an intersectional analysis and represent diverse perspectives. Consider the geographic focus, audience engagement, and support for underrepresented filmmakers.
Innovation in Storytelling (25%): Evaluate the project’s innovative approach to content creation for advancing justice. Assess its ability to creatively reshape narratives and challenge conventional perspectives.
Production Viability and Independence (20%): Assess the project’s independence in production and its feasibility. Are the filmmakers skilled and resourced enough to produce the proposed project?
ADDITIONAL DETAILS:
The information we request generally aligns with the Documentary Core Applicationutilized by the International Documentary Association, Sundance Documentary Film Program, and other funding organizations.
Upon review of your materials by Ford staff, you may receive an invitation to submit additional materials. We have very limited staffing, and we regret that we are unable to meet individually with filmmakers about their submissions or provide project feedback at this time.
fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/justfilms/justfilms-application/
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TV WRITING MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Shore Scripts
DEADLINES:
Regular – April 11, 2025
Final – May 16, 2025
INFO: Our TV Writing Mentorship Program isn't your typical screenwriting contest. It's a game-changing experience that will level up your TV writing career.
8 Weeks of high-impact sessions with Showrunner Beth Schwartz (ARROW), Dev Exec Duane Luu (NBCUniversal), David Katsman (Sugar23) and more will help prepare you to get staffed, gain representation, and get your pilot in the marketplace while offering invaluable behind-the-scenes knowledge of working in TV.
shorescripts.com/tv-pilot-contest/
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Sesame Workshop Writers’ Room
Sesame Workshop
DEADLINE: April 14, 2025
INFO: Sesame Workshop Writers’ Room is a writing fellowship from the creators of Sesame Street. And we’re looking for YOU!
Fresh new writing talent that reflects our vast audience. Emerging storytellers who are selected to join the Writers’ Room will receive hands-on writing experience guided by Sesame Street veterans and other media industry leaders. Each participant will develop and write a pilot script for their own original kids’ program. Past fellows have gone on to develop their own original content with Sesame Workshop, as well as write for Sesame Street and various programs at Nickelodeon, Disney, DreamWorks, and more!
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
Up to 6 writers will be selected
Sessions are expected to take place virtually from August to November 2025
Learn from industry writers, producers, agents and executives
Learn and complete all steps of creating an original pilot episode script
Includes eight, three-hour sessions; and 12, one-hour office hours sessions on creating original children’s content
Up to two participants will have the opportunity to receive creative development deals and further mentorship
APPLICATION CHECK LIST:
Resumes: 2-page maximum. Anything longer will be disqualified.
Personal statement: tell us about yourself, for example, why you want to write for children’s educational media, and how your lived experiences influence the stories you want to tell in children’s media, etc. (up to 250 words)
Original script sample: 12-page maximum; should NOT contain Sesame Street elements, characters, or intellectual property; can be an excerpt from a larger piece wholly written by the applicant; must model a 3 act story structure; and be kid-friendly content for viewers up to age 12…we’re looking for great characters and stories that inspire kids to be smarter, stronger and kinder!
More info on your script: what’s the bigger picture/idea of your script sample? (up to 100 words)
ELIGIBILITY CHECK LIST:
Participants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Participants must be 21+ years old
No extensive media writing experience, such as having written more than six episodes for a network or cable scripted/narrative series
Participants must be able to attend and complete writing assignments for all 8 sessions, and attend the 12 office hours sessions, which will be held virtually from August to November 2025
sesameworkshop.org/our-work/fellowships/writers-room/
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2026 Writer-In-Residence
Hedgebrook
DEADLINE: April 14, 2025
INFO: Hedgebrook is a nonprofit organization serving women-identified writers. Our retreat program is located on Whidbey Island near Seattle where writers come to write, rejuvenate and be in community with each other. Hedgebrook welcomes all women-identified writers representing diversity in citizenship status, nationality, current place of residence, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, trans* identity, age, disability, professional experience, and economic resources. We welcome applicants, published or not, who embrace the mission and opportunity to be a member of Hedgebrook's community.
Writers join an intimate and diverse community of six residents at a time who share a home-cooked meal, their work, their process and their stories, in addition to the time spent in solitude.
Applications will be accepted in the following genres:
Non-Fiction
Poetry
Screenwriting
Playwriting
Fiction
https://hedgebrook.slideroom.com
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VIMEO SHORT FILM GRANT
Vimeo
DEADLINE: April 18, 2025
INFO: The Vimeo Short Film Grant will support five filmmakers with money, mentorship, and equipment for their next short film project.
AWARDS + DISTRIBUTION OF FUNDS:
$30,000 cash grant
To be put towards an original short filmCamera loans
Nikon and RED will loan camera equipment and provide product education to winners for use in their film productionOne-on-one mentorship sessions with jury members and the Vimeo Curation Team
Sessions on scriptwriting, editing, film festival strategy, film financing, distribution, and morePromotion and distribution
Online distribution with dedicated promotion on VimeoIn-person screenings
Vimeo-hosted community screenings in NYC and LAVimeo products
One-year Vimeo Standard Subscription
ELIGIBILITY:
The Vimeo Short Film Grant, presented by Nikon | RED is open to residents of the US and Canada only.
Applicants must be 18 years or older at the time of entry.
The Vimeo Short Film Grant, presented by Nikon | RED is intended for emerging filmmakers who have completed at least two short films, but have yet to complete a feature film.
Funds from the The Vimeo Short Film Grant, presented by Nikon | RED are intended for production purposes. Projects that are currently in production or post-production will not be considered.
Each applicant is permitted to submit only one project for consideration per grant year.
Must have a free or paid Vimeo account to enter.
No purchase is necessary to submit.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
To submit your application, please prepare the following:
Project details
Project title, logline, synopsis (250 words), current statusStatement of intent
An artistic proposal for the project (500 words)Project team
Director bio(s), contact information, resume/CV, Vimeo links to two directorial work samplesKey creative materials
Treatments (required for documentary projects), screenplays (required for narrative projects), pitch decks (optional)Project budget and financing plan
Line-item budget proposal detailing intended use of awarded fundsProduction timeline
Timeline proposal for a six-month productionProject mentorship and distribution goals
Strategy and goals for mentorship sessions and for project's releaseNikon | RED equipment
Indicate preference for first, second, and third camera choice (from RED V-Raptor [X] Z Mount, Komodo-X Z Mount, and or Nikon Z9, Z8, Z6III)
TIMELINE:
July 7 2025 - Applicants notified and winners announced
July 2025 - Cash awards distributed and six-month production and virtual mentorship sessions begin
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CALL FOR FILMS BY WOMEN OF COLOR
Reel Sisters
DEADLINES:
Regular: April 30, 2025
Final: May 27, 2025
INFO: The Reel Sisters of the Diaspora Film Festival & Lecture Series is an annual film festival founded by African Voices magazine. Established in 1997, Reel Sisters (www.reelsisters.org) is dedicated to providing opportunities for women of color to advance their careers in the film industry.Reel Sisters accepts films written, directed, or produced by women/non-binary filmmakers of color.
Reel Sisters is the first Academy Qualifying Film Festival for short narratives devoted to women of color across the globe. Reel Sisters is an IMDb qualifying film festival. Reel Sisters celebrates our 28th Anniversary in 2025. Our festival includes in-person and virtual presentations. The films showcased virtually are in competition for all awards including our Oscar qualifying award. Please note other dates and venues will be added, our festival season begins with our Harlem kick off!
APPLICATION INFO: YOU MUST SUBMIT PRODUCTION STILLS/PHOTOS and a TRAILER for your submission to be ELIGIBLE AND COMPLETE. You can screenshot photos from your film if you were unable to hire a photographer.
Reel Sisters is a competitive festival and films are selected by an independent jury. Please submit films early as deadlines are final. The festival provides quality customer service and does not offer fee waivers. The fee covers a small fraction of the administrative costs for running a professional Oscar qualifying film festival.
Reel Sisters accepts all genres and formats with a special interest in submissions from animated and web series producers. Send us films that will make our audience “cry, dance, laugh, sing and explore." The festival curates events throughout the year so all entries will be considered for Reel Sisters Tea & Cinema series. Join our worldwide community of film professionals in celebrating stories produced, directed and written by women of color!
CASH AWARDS FOR 2025
Best Narrative Short - $1,000
Best Director - $500
Best Screenplay - $300
Best Animation - $200
GENERAL RULES:
TRANSLATION: Your film must be English dubbed or have English subtitles if it is in any other language.
PRODUCTION STILLS & TRAILERS: Please make sure you upload production photos with your submission and a trailer. If you do not have photos, you can screen shot a photo by pausing a scene in your film to create one. Your submission will not be complete without all promotional materials uploaded.
NO WAIVERS: Entry fees cover a small portion of the festival’s administrative costs for processing submissions and are non-refundable. We do not offer waivers.
OUR REFUND POLICY: Our entry fees are non-refundable. It is the responsibility of the filmmaker to read our guidelines and policies to ensure that they are eligible to submit to our festival.
TO SUBMIT A FILM to REEL SISTERS:
Please read our guidelines carefully before submitting your film as we do not issue refunds for entry fees. It is your responsibility to ensure your film meets our criteria and submission guidelines. We rarely accept films longer than 90 minutes. Your film must have a women of color as co-producer, co-director or co-writer, if the lead producer/director is male.
We only accept films via FilmFreeway. PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL US ANY VIDEO LINKS. If you submit to FilmFreeway via a Vimeo link, you must provide a passcode to view. You must make your film downloadable for our production staff if your film is accepted. If you do not make your film downloadable by the requested deadline, your film will not be eligible for consideration. We discourage Youtube links.
Please contact FilmFreeway staff if you have any issues uploading your film and making it downloadable for our production staff if you receive an acceptance letter.
We will need downloadable trailer links from FilmFreeway or Vimeo to help promote your film in our festival. You must submit the trailers and photos with your application. If your materials are not submitted with your application, your film will be disqualified.
Complete the details required, providing brief synopsis of the film, credits, production stills and trailers. We accept photographs in all formats including JPEGs, TIFFs and EPS (electronic photos must be 300 dpi resolution for promotional purposes).
All accepted films will be notified via email. Please make sure ALL of your Contact Information is up-to-date. If your email changed between the time you submitted your film and our Notification Date, please update it ASAP so we can correspond with you.
filmfreeway.com/ReelSistersoftheDiasporaFilmFestival
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CALL FOR ENTRIES: 2025 Twin Cities Arab Film Festival
Mizna
DEADLINE:
Early - May 11, 2025
Late - May 31, 2025
INFO: Mizna’s 2025 Twin Cities Arab Film Festival seeks films for our upcoming festival scheduled for September 24–28, 2025. We accept narrative, documentary, experimental, and animated films of feature and short lengths. We seek films made by filmmakers from the SWANA region and beyond, as well as films relevant to the social realities of the SWANA region.
This year, all accepted submissions will be considered for Audience and Jury Awards.
Mizna strives to make our film festival accessible to filmmakers of all financial backgrounds. Filmmakers in need of a submission fee waiver can email mizna@mizna.org.