HBCU SPORTS BROADCASTING GRANT
National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences / Coca-Cola
DEADLINE: March 2, 2026
INFO: The Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Broadcasting Grant is a $40,000 grant program celebrating outstanding student storytellers at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who are passionate about sports, storytelling and media production.
This initiative is administered by the Foundation of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) — the organization behind the Emmy® Awards — and honors the next generation of sports media creators who bring to life the voices, pride and impact of HBCU athletics.
TOTAL GRANT POOL: $40,000 to be awarded to one, two or three winning entries depending on the scores..
ELIGIBILITY:
To qualify:
You must be an undergraduate student enrolled at an HBCU.
You may enter individually or as part of a student team.
Multiple submissions from the same school are welcome.
You do not need to be a journalism or media major — this competition is open to all storytellers who want to explore the power of sports.
Entries that do not meet these eligibility requirements will not be considered.
WHAT TO SUBMIT:
Each entry must include two components:
A video submission
A short essay
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Reel Innovators: Shorts Showcase + Training Incubator
Sisters in Cinema
DEADLINE: March 6, 2026
INFO: Sisters in Cinema's signature program, Reel Innovators: Shorts Showcase + Training Incubator, is a young adult short film screening series that showcases the work of emerging Black young adult filmmakers ages 18-24 with a passion for storytelling. This program provides the opportunity for emerging Black women and gender nonconforming media makers to screen their work, receive training, and raise their visibility as filmmakers.
The Young Adult Short Film Screening Program is a paid opportunity ($500) that includes:
Marketing & Distribution Training (3 hours)
Presentation & Q&A Preparation Training (3 hours)
A Screening Showcasing their work
Q&A after their screening
A pre or post-screening reception
Opportunity to receive a bonus $250 prize as the selected marketing campaign proposal winner
IMPORTANT DATES:
March 28th 10:00am - 4:30pm - Training Incubator
May 2nd or May 3rd - Shorts Showcase
Preference will be given to applicants from South Shore and other South Side neighborhoods. If you have nominations, please send nominees this application form
If you have any questions about or difficulty with this form, please email myana@sistersincinema.com.
Please Note: Payments will be distributed upon successful completion of the entire program.
docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdTFXS29tIBQCMJWYnuCwKR2BOFG4Ulc6p7cd7907zM0cXH3A/viewform
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Translation Lab 2026 Open Call
Art Omi: Writers
DEADLINE: March 20, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST
INFO: Art Omi: Writers is now seeking proposals for Translation Lab 2026, a 12-day special, intensive residency for five collaborating writer-translator teams in the fall of 2026.
Art Omi will host five translators of any language INTO English, along with the writers whose work is being translated, in New York's Hudson Valley for 12 days. All text-based projects—fiction, creative nonfiction, theater, film, poetry, etc.—are eligible.
This focused residency will provide an integral stage of refinement, allowing translators to dialogue with the writers about text-specific questions. It will also serve as an essential community-builder for English-language translators who are working to increase the amount of international literature available to English-language readers.
The dates for Translation Lab 2026 are September 9-21, 2026. Art Omi provides airfare, local car transportation, and a small honorarium. Residents accepted into Translation Lab are responsible for their own train transportation from New York City to the Art Omi campus. Please note: accepted applicants must be available for the duration of the Translation Lab. Late arrivals and early departures are NOT possible. Please do not submit a proposal unless both parties involved (translator and writer) are available for all dates. Please also ensure both parties are eligible to travel to the United States at the time of the application.
Translators, writers, editors, and agents can submit an application.
Each application must include a Project Proposal and a Work Sample.
The Project Proposal should be no more than three pages and provide the following information:
Names of the translator and writer applying, as well as contact information (physical address, email, and phone number) and the original language of the text. These details should be provided at the very top of the proposal.
Brief biographical sketches for the translator and writer.
A description of the proposed project, including details about how you envision structuring your working time together.
Publishing status of the proposed project. (Projects that do not yet have a publisher are eligible.)
2. The Work Sample must be 10-15 pages (12 pt font, double-spaced) of an English translation by the translator applying. It is preferred that the sample be from the proposed project; however, if this is not possible, please provide another translation work sample.
Candidates will be notified in May 2026.
artomi.org/residencies/writers/
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call for submissions: 9:16 microdrama project
American Black Film Festival (ABFF)
DEADLINE: March 20, 2026
SUBMISSION FEE: $10
INFO: The ABFF 9:16 Microdrama Project is the American Black Film Festival’s official platform for identifying, showcasing, and amplifying outstanding vertical microdrama series created by creators of color.
PROJECT GOAL + SELECTION PROCESS:
The Project will highlight a select group of standout microdrama series and elevate their creators through meaningful exposure and platform recognition. Each year, a limited number of projects will be chosen through a competitive review process evaluated by industry professionals, including creative executives, producers, and leaders across digital, film, and emerging media spaces. Selected creators will be named Official Selections of the ABFF 9:16 Microdrama Project and showcased through digital-first exhibition across ABFF platforms, with integration into the 2026 American Black Film Festival. Creators will retain full ownership and creative control of their work while gaining increased industry awareness and visibility.
SUBMISSION OVERVIEW:
Successful submissions will demonstrate:
Episodic binge-worthiness, with clear cliffhangers or unresolved moments that compel continued viewing
Strong episodic momentum that advances the story in every episode
Heightened emotional stakes that drive urgency and engagement
Clear, accessible storytelling built for mobile-first consumption
A series structure that rewards repeat viewing and narrative escalation
CREATIVE + TECHNICAL CRITERIA:
Submitted projects must meet the following requirements:
Vertical (9:16) microdrama series
Six (6) to ten (10) episodes
Episodes must be two (2) minutes or less each, including credits
Content must be in English or include English subtitles
All genres are accepted, including drama, sci-fi, comedy, thriller, romance, and more
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
To be eligible for consideration:
The project must be created by a filmmaker or creative team led by creators of color.
Entrants must be eighteen (18) years of age or older
Submissions must be made by an individual or entity with legal authority to submit the project
Submitted projects must be original works, with all necessary rights, licenses, and permissions fully cleared
Projects may have been shared, promoted, or exhibited on digital or social platforms; however, projects must not have been formally distributed, licensed, or commercially exhibited
REQUIRED SUBMISSION MATERIALS:
(All materials must be submitted via FilmFreeway)
Screening-ready 9:16 microdrama episodes (6–10 total)
Series synopsis
Episode guide (one-line summary per episode)
Creator bio(s)
Creator headshot(s)
Creator statement
Key art or series still image
Completed online submission form
Acceptance of the Submission Agreement, Limited Exhibition License & Release
abff.com/miami/submissions/abff-916-microdrama-project/
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LEF/CIFF FELLOWSHIP
Point North
DEADLINE: March 27, 2026 at 11:59pm ET
INFO: The LEF/CIFF Fellowship is an opportunity for 5 New England-based filmmaking teams to attend the 2026 Camden International Film Festival and connect with other filmmakers and industry leaders through a series of mentor-led project development workshops, networking events, and curated 1:1 meetings.
CIFF has become an important stop on the documentary festival circuit for both filmmakers and industry delegates, who attend to build new relationships with filmmakers participating in Points North Institute’s Artist Programs. In recent years, LEF/CIFF Fellows have had opportunities to build relationships with dozens of major funders (Sundance Institute, Ford Foundation, Doc Society, Chicken & Egg, Catapult); streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, Disney+); broadcasters (POV, CNN, NBC, HBO, ESPN); theatrical distributors (NEON, A24); and more.
Developed in partnership with LEF New England, this program supports career sustainability for regional filmmakers by providing a unique point of access to potential industry supporters, peer mentorship opportunities with fellow filmmakers, and connections to the broader documentary community.
ELIGIBILITY:
The Fellowship is open to projects with directors who have established their primary residence in New England (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont)
Open to feature length documentary projects in production or post-production
Prior LEF/CIFF Fellows are not eligible to participate in the program again with the same project. However, prior LEF/CIFF Fellows may apply with a new project.
CRITERIA:
Applicants will be evaluated based on LEF New England’s guidelines, which include these factors:
Quality of cinematic form and technique
Originality of filmmaker’s voice, vision, and point of view
Resonance and power of the film’s core idea or story
Feasibility of production
FELLOWS WILL RECEIVE:
a $1,000 stipend per project to support travel to Camden
(2) Points North passes to the Camden International Film Festival, providing full access to all screenings, forums, events, and our exclusive Lounge
(6) nights of accommodations (one double-occupancy room) during the festival
pointsnorthinstitute.org/artist-programs/lef-ciff-fellowship/
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VSC Residency (JANUARY TO JUNE 2027)
Vermont Studio Center (VSC)
DEADLINE: March 31, 2026
APPLICATION FEE: $25
INFO: VSC’s residency program welcomes artists and writers working across all mediums and genres for two, three, and four week sessions.
Residents enjoy well-lit, private studios within a short walk to residency housing, dining hall, and local amenities. Studio spaces range from 170 - 300 square feet. Accommodations include a private room and shared common areas. The campus features include a print shop, digital lab, and metal, wood, ceramic facility. Studios are open 24 hours a day.
A VSC residency provides artists and writers the time and space to focus on their creative practice in an inclusive, international community within a small Vermont village. Residents can explore swimming holes, hiking and biking trails, as well as the rural charm of neighboring towns, while expanding their creative potential and building a solid network of friends and mentors.
PROGRAMMING: During each session, Visiting Artists and Visiting Writers are invited to join us for presentations, craft talks, one-on-one manuscript consultations, and individual studio visits. Residents can also enjoy open studio nights, resident presentations, and exhibition openings. All scheduled activities are optional. Residents are encouraged to unplug, completely immerse themselves in their work, and work at their own pace.
COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION: VSC is committed to creating a strong sense of community both locally and on campus. Once on campus, residents have the opportunity to participate in our Community Contribution Program by assisting in one of these areas: Kitchen, Campus Projects or Skill Sharing. No prior experience is necessary.
vermontstudiocenter.org/residency-program
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HUMANITAS PRIZE
Humanitas
DEADLINE: April 1, 2026 AT 11:59pm PT
SUBMISSION FEES:
$175 for features, teleplays, and documentary submissions
$55 for short film
INFO: Since 1974, The Humanitas Prizes have been awarded to honor professional film and television writers whose work exemplifies the art of screenwriting while exploring the human condition in a nuanced, meaningful way. The Humanitas Prizes are presented at an annual event in the Los Angeles-area where winners receive a trophy and a cash prize.
Past winners include The Pitt, Pachinko, Origin, All in the Family, The Handmaid’s Tale, The Last of Us, ER, Hidden Figures, Dying for Sex, black-ish, Encanto, Good Will Hunting, Inside Out 2, Lady Bird, In the Same Breath, Black Cake, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, El Deafo, Hacks, The Bernie Mac Show, Sing Sing, Orange is the New Black, NYPD Blue, 13th, and many more.
REQUIRED SUBMISSION MATERIALS:
Completed entry form
PDF of shooting script with writing credits redacted or documentary upload
Writer(s) short bio (200 words or less)
Submission fee
$175 for features, teleplays, and documentary submissions
$50 discount is available for projects without distribution and for writers submitting material themselves. Writers and filmmakers may use the code “DIRECTSUBMIT2026” for a $50 discount on their teleplay, feature, and documentary submissions at checkout. Short film submissions are already discounted.
$55 for short film
Submission fees must be paid via credit card through the submission platform. Alternative payment via wire transfer, check, or e-payment service (e.g.: Square or PayPal) can be arranged by contacting the Humanitas office at info@humanitasprize.org. The office will then provide you with a discount code you can use to bypass the credit card payment requirement of the submission platform.
ELIGIBLE CATEGORIES:
Drama Teleplay
Comedy Teleplay
Children’s Teleplay (for audiences age 6 and up)
Limited Series Teleplay
Comedy Feature
Drama Feature
Family Feature
Short Film
Documentary
Feature-length and Docuseries (single episode) are awarded separately
Please view The Humanitas Prizes FAQ for descriptions of each category.
GENERAL DETAILS:
Humanitas does not consider unproduced or unreleased projects for Humanitas Prizes.
All scripts must have been produced and the final feature film, television episode, or short film, either live action or animated, must have been released in the United States between June 1, 2025 and May 31, 2026.
“Released” is defined here as a festival screening (including screenings/showcases which serve as the culminating event of a professional development program), theatrical distribution, a streaming launch, or broadcast or cable televising of the project. In some instances, an international film festival screening may satisfy this requirement as well. Please contact Humanitas at info@humanitasprize.org to confirm.
Projects released between April 1, 2025 and May 31, 2025 may apply for a release window eligibility waiver if the project was not previously submitted for Humanitas Prize consideration. Waivers may be requested using this form.
It is not required that the production and/or writer(s) be based in the United States.
All submitted material is kept confidential. Nominated material will be submitted to the Writers Guild Foundation Shavelson-Webb Library unless otherwise indicated in the submission form. The library endeavors to collect scripts which represent the best in film/television writing, including those nominated for the Humanitas Prize. Scripts are never photocopied, put online, or otherwise distributed beyond the library. Patrons must visit in-person to read material.
There is no limit to the number of scripts writers, studios, and production companies may submit.
Submitted material must be written in English. English translations of material originally written in another language will be accepted.
TV movies should be submitted under the Drama Feature, Comedy Feature, or Family Feature categories.
Should a writing team be selected, cash prizes will be split evenly amongst the writers.
If nominated for a Humanitas Prize, a video clip from the completed production will be requested.
TELEPLAY DETAILS:
Categories recognize single episodes, not a full season or series.
To provide context for Humanitas Prize judges, the application form includes an optional section where applicants may add additional story and character information. It is strongly encouraged that this section be utilized when the submitted project is an episode of a serialized show.
In Children’s Teleplay, if a program airs two episodes in a half-hour block, each episode is treated as its own script. Combined scripts are not eligible.
If episodes from the same series are submitted to two different categories, Humanitas reserves the right to move the submissions to the same category.
SHORT FILM DETAILS:
Short film running times must not exceed 40 minutes. Projects longer than this are considered features.
Submissions to the short film category should be for scripted projects. Documentary shorts are not eligible for the short film category.
DOCUMENTARY DETAILS:
In lieu of a script, documentary entrants must submit digital video content via direct file upload or as a link via YouTube, Vimeo, or other video hosting service. If the link is password protected, please be sure to list the password in the correct field in the application and ensure the link will be active until August 1.
Feature-length documentaries and individual episodes of docuseries are eligible for consideration.
Feature-length documentaries are defined as standalone units of nonfiction filmmaking that are not part of a series and have a running time that exceeds 40 minutes. Feature-length documentaries may have a release via a festival screening (including screenings/showcases which serve as the culminating event of a professional development program), theatrical distribution, a streaming launch, or broadcast or cable televising of the project.
Docuseries episodes are defined as a unit of nonfiction filmmaking of any length which is part of series that airs via a broadcast channel, cable channel, or streaming service. Docuseries may or may not be serialized. There is no minimum number of episodes required to qualify as a docuseries. Two part docuseries should submit one episode.
To provide context for Humanitas Prize judges reviewing material submitted to the Docuseries category, the application form includes an optional section where applicants may add additional story and character information. It is strongly encouraged that this section be utilized when the submitted project is an episode of a serialized show.
Unless they are submitted separately, Judges will only review one episode of a docuseries. If an applicant provides a link to a full docuseries and does not specify an episode in the application, only the first episode will be viewed.
Broadcast news segments, variety show segments, and documentary shorts are not eligible for the documentary categories.
TO SUBMIT:
Please submit script and materials via our Awards Force web portal.
It is strongly preferred applicants pay the submission fee by selecting the appropriate credit card option at check out. Alternative payment via wire transfer, check, or e-payment service (e.g.: Square or PayPal) can be arranged by contacting Humanitas at info@humanitasprize.org.
Humanitas has a limited number of submission fee waivers it can offer annually. Please use this form to request a fee waiver if cost presents a barrier to entry.
If you have any other questions, please contact Humanitas at info@humanitasprize.org or view our FAQ .