SHIFTING VOICES FUND FAQs

  • Is this a rolling application or is there a deadline for applications?

    • The deadline for the Shifting Voices Fund is 11:59 CST January 31, 2023.

  • Will you accept submissions from films/filmmakers outside the US?

    • Yes

  • Does Shifting Voices Film Fund support a specific stage of production?

    • The Shifting Voices Fund is supporting all stages of production.

  • Who is eligible to apply to Shifting Voices Film Fund?

    • The SVFF is looking to support films directed by BIPOC filmmakers. We also seek intersectionality under this umbrella, not limited to gender identity, sexual orientations, disability, etc. 

  • Video/Audio Responses 

    • To provide an equitable, accessible application for all, the Shifting Voices Film Fund will accept video + audio responses to the application question questions. You will have the ability to add an external link to an audio or video clip for each question. The video quality will not be part of the judging - these can be taken on a webcam or phone camera. Jurors will review up to 3 minutes of audio or video clips, so please ensure your response is limited to the time frame. 

  • Is there a budget template?

  • I applied in the previous round. Can I apply this year with the same project?

    • You may apply with the same project from a previous round if your project has progressed. Please reference the current application checklist and update your submission accordingly. 

  • When will I be notified?

    • Round 1: February 2023

    • Round 2: Semi-Finalists March 2023

  • How are selections/finalists chosen?

    • Each application will be reviewed and scored by our team based on a multitude of factors. Applications that receive the highest total score will be selected as to move to the next round of review.

  • Can I provide an update?

    • Finalists will be invited to provide a project update. Remember to not change your work sample links while they are under review.

  • Can I submit multiple projects?

    • No, each applicant can only submit one project.

  • What is expected from the current work sample?

    • You must submit a work sample for the project you are proposing. The suggested length is 10-15 minutes. It cannot be less than 10 minutes. Also only the first 15 minutes of a sample longer than 15 minutes can be reviewed. There are no restrictions on the type of sample. Choose material that reflects the strongest elements of your story, characters and style. It can be one scene, a string out of scenes, an interview with a character, a rough cut. Please make certain the audio can be heard. Be sure to give context of what the sample is in the proposal. We encourage applicants to not expend extra resources to prepare the sample.

  • Are narratives, broadcasts or web series eligible?

    • Narratives and series are not eligible for Shifting Voices funding.

  • Do you accept international co-productions?

    • Yes. International co-productions are eligible if the applicant (director and/or producer) is a US citizen or resides in the US and is a “US Person” with a valid tax ID.

  • What production-related costs are acceptable?

    • Production costs may include staff, crew, travel, gear rental, office expenses, production insurance and legal expenses during the production period. Films with principal research and development completed are especially encouraged to apply. Films nearing the end of production will be considered, but must have production expenses remaining. 

  • Is there someone I can discuss my project with before applying?

    • We are happy to answer any specific questions you have via email here. We encourage you to apply if you believe you meet the criteria.

  • If I am awarded, how soon after can I expect to receive the grant?

    • With our semi-finalists chosen by March 2023, we anticipate grant funding to be delivered by the end of May 2023.

  • If you have other questions not answered here, please email us!