Inclusive Resources for Filmmakers and Screenwriters
After a big pause in 2020, grant applications are reopening for filmmakers and screenwriters this year. Fortunately, there are plenty of inclusive grants and fellowships currently available in Film and TV.
Female and gender non-conforming creatives deserve more representation in filmmaking and screenwriting. We hope the following list of funders proves to be a helpful, inspiring resource for you. Additional suggestions for this ever-growing list are welcome. Bear in mind that some of the funders’ applications are US-based only.
Barbara Hammer GrantAwards self-identified lesbians in the filmmaking space (US-based).
No update on the 2021 application process yet, but refer here for more information.
CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment) New Writers Fellowship Mentors emerging Film/TV writers who “should be consistent with CAPE’s mission to champion diversity by educating, empowering, and connecting Asian American and Pacific Islander artists and leaders in entertainment.”
2021 fellowship submissions are now closed, but you can access their website for updates and eligibility terms/requirements.
Chicken & Egg PicturesSupports self-identifying females (cisgender + transgender) and gender non-conforming nonfiction filmmakers dedicated to social change through storytelling.
Read more about their award and mentorship programs here, including the (Egg)Celerator Lab, which is currently accepting 2022 applications through June 22, 2021.
Film Independent Screenwriting and Filmmaking ProgramsHelps diverse filmmakers and screenwriters make their projects through funding opportunities and workshops.
Take a look at which of their program applications are currently open here.
Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Grant Completion FundProvides grants to both emerging and established filmmakers for projects about LGBTQ+ life.
Submissions for their 2021 Completion Fund will open in Fall 2021.
The Future of Film is FemaleAims to represent equality and diversity by amplifying female voices, particularly BIWOC, within Film.
Operating on three funding cycles per year, they are now accepting the next round of short film submissions here through May 16, 2021. Be sure to read their general guidelines first to see if you qualify.
Humanitas New Voices Writers ProgramLaunches and mentors the careers of talented TV and Film writers under the guidance of Hollywood showrunners and studio partners.
The extended deadline for application is May 17, 2021. Application submission details are here.
Inevitable Foundation Screenwriting FellowshipProvides funding opportunity for “disabled screenwriters who are creating mainstream stories, which may or may not include disabled characters or be about disability.”
Submissions are on a rolling basis. For more information on eligibility requirements, click here.
Inside Out's RE: Focus FundDirectly supports women, non-binary, and/or trans filmmakers who tell 2SLGBTQ+ stories through cinema.
Find out more about their efforts during COVID-19, including their 2020 emergency relief fund and selected projects.
Jane Walker IFundWomen First Women Grant ProgramProviding grants to “30 groundbreaking women-owned businesses through the end of the year” with eligibility in Entertainment & Film.
Learn more about the program and application process here.
Loreen Arbus Disability Awareness Grant (via New York Women in Film and Television)Provides grant to a female filmmaker “for a film on physical or developmental disability issues.” Intended to assist a work-in-progress, not a finished project (US-based).
Learn more about the grant here.
New York Women's Fund for Media, Music & TheatreEncourages and supports women with the creation of projects in Digital, Film/TV, Music, and Theatre, illustrating the female perspective.
The 2021 application process is currently postponed. Refer here or subscribe to their newsletter for updates.
Sarah Jacobson Film GrantAwards “self-identifying women and gender non-conforming individuals whose work embodies some of the things that Sarah stood for: a fierce DIY approach to filmmaking, a radical social critique, and a thoroughly underground sensibility.”
On hiatus in 2021 with plans to return in 2022.
Women in Film: Film Finishing FundAwards funding to women directors to ensure complete production on a film.
While the 2021 status for grant applications remains unknown due to the pandemic, check here or subscribe to their newsletter for future announcements.
Women in Film & Video (DC) Seed Fund for Documentary FilmmakersEducational networking opportunities for women who desire, or have already established, media careers in the DC area.
Member-based applications for the seed fund are due May 17, 2021. Find the application checklist and more at this link.
Women Make Movies Production Assistance ProgramSupports women in producing independent media through sponsorships, networking opportunities, workshops, and more.
Submissions are on a rolling basis. For benefits, eligibility, and how to apply, click here.
Women's Voices Now Film CollectionShowcases female filmmakers and films about social change to encourage and strengthen girls’ and women's rights.
Applications for their Girls’ Voices Now summer program close May 24, 2021. Check to make sure you meet the program requirements before applying.
