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When is the application deadline?

Grant applications close: August 31, 2019

I work with a co-director, collaborator, or collective. Can we apply together?

Yes, TVF welcomes applications from filmmaking teams. In this case, you should only designate 1 single individual to apply on behalf of your team and then include all relevant members of the team and their background/roles in the video essay.

Is there any application fee to apply?

No, there is no application fee and all applications are entirely free. However, as a 501c3 nonprofit, every donation counts. If you’re able, please consider making a small donation (click here) to support TVF’s initiatives (not required but truly appreciated). Note: All grant applications receive equal consideration irrespective of donations submitted.

Is the video essay really required? Can I submit footage or a completed film instead?

The video essay is required of all applicants and is not optional. It is one of the most important pieces of the application and is an opportunity for you to communicate directly with the selection committee. Separate footage or completed works may be included in the portfolio but may not replace the video essay.

Any advice or tips for producing the video essay?

The video essay is a key element of the selection process and should showcase the best of your creative and technical abilities. We advise all applicants to produce a new video essay specifically for the TVF grant application and to address TVF directly. Please do not simply submit a link to a general trailer or promo video for your project. Additionally, please ensure that you give yourself enough time to produce a video that demonstrates what you are truly capable of. Do your best to let your personality shine through and to communicate why your story needs to be told. Previous successfully-funded projects have communicated a strong understanding of TVF’s core values and what makes their project special.

I’m confused about the budget. What should I submit?

  • TVF provides funding in specific incremental amounts. Grant applicants apply and the selection committee then decides to award projects funding from these available amounts. Therefore, your project is eligible to receive any incremental amount: from the maximum amount available to the minimum amount available.
  • Effectively, we want to see how you would prioritize spending and how you’d plan to spend the funds, if awarded – both in the best and worst case scenario. Budget #1 should itemize how you would spend the maximum amount available. Budget #2 should itemize how you would spend the minimum amount available.

I missed the grant application deadline, can I still apply?

Applicants who are unable to submit their grant application and supporting materials by a particular deadline are encouraged to apply during the next application cycle.

Can I apply to more than one grant?

Yes, applicants are welcome to apply to be considered for more than one grant (e.g. writing and production). However, you will need to submit a separate application for each specific grant and should only apply to one stage of production at a time (e.g. production OR post-production, but not both). Applicants should pay special attention to the short answer essays and ensure that they submit project-specific rationales.

If my project receives funding, how will I document my project’s progress?

As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, accountability and documentation are core elements of our operations. All grant recipients are required to submit regularly-scheduled progress reports and other items. However, we are careful to ensure that all documentation is scaled to the relevant level of funding provided and that all required items can be easily completed. All grant recipients are provided more detailed information upon receiving their award offer.


EIN 83-2082256