EMERGING FILMMAKER

SHORT FILM GRANT

Your first or second short film could change everything.

Black Film Space is awarding $3,000 to an emerging filmmaker ready to bring their story to life.

We’re looking for fresh voices, daring ideas, and powerful perspectives.

Applicants may have worked on other projects — but for this film, you must be the writer, director, and producer.

This is your moment to create. Your story deserves the spotlight.

Submissions Timeline:

Virtual Orientation: Wed, Oct 22, 9pm ET/6pm PT | Click here to register

Submissions Open: Wed, Oct 22, 10pm ET

Submissions Close: Wed, Nov 12, 11:59 pm ET

Winner Announced/Funds Disbursed: Fri, Jan 30

We recommend you review this page/FAQ’s or attend the orientation before applying.

Questions? E-mail us at info@blackfilmspace.com

Applicant Guidelines

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

• Applicants must serve as the Writer, Director, and Producer of the proposed short film. Collaborative projects are eligible as long as the applicant is a co-writer, co-director, and co-producer.

• To qualify, applicants cannot have previously completed more than one film in which they served as all three roles — Writer, Director, and Producer (either solo or as a co–writer/director/producer). In other words, you may have written, directed, or produced other films before, but not more than one where you held all three positions at once.

• Your script should be 20 pages or less, not counting the cover page.
Scripts that exceed 20 pages will not be considered.

• Each application must include:

— Screenplay or work-in-progress film (if production has begun)
— Personal statement
— Production timeline
— Budget
— Optional samples of past video work

• Applicants must submit a narrative short film project. Series and documentaries will not be considered.

• All genres are welcome.

• Applicants may reside anywhere in the world, but must have access to a U.S. bank account to receive grant funds.

• Applicants may submit only one film project.

• Projects that have already completed production are still eligible.
Grant funds may be used toward post-production, festival submissions, or distribution expenses.

• Application fee: $25
Free for current Black Film Space members ($75/yr). Learn more about our membership.

GRANT WINNER REQUIREMENTS

  • Principal Photography must be complete by September 1st, 2026.

  • Black Film Space must be credited as producers on the film.

  • Grant winners must function in the following roles: Writer, Director, and Producer.

  • Filmmakers must be available for follow up discussions with Black Film Space on the progress of their short film.

  • If the winner makes significant changes to their script, they are required to update Black Film Space with details of how they plan to remain within the budget they proposed in their application.

  • Winner will be required to provide receipts or proof of expenses showing how grant funds were used.

Frequently ASKED QUESTIONS

  • We’re funding a filmmaker who is still early in their journey as a multi-hyphenate — meaning someone who is the Writer, Director, and Producer of the same project.

    You are eligible if this is your first or second short film where you’ve served in all three roles (Writer, Director, and Producer).

    You are not eligible if you’ve already completed two or more films in which you held all three roles at the same time.

    You can have directed, written, or produced other films individually — just not more than one where you did all three.

  • The application fee helps cover the administrative costs of reviewing submissions, compensating our selection committee, and supporting the continued operation of Black Film Space’s grant programs.

    As a nonprofit, these small fees allow us to reinvest directly into our mission — providing resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities for Black filmmakers.

  • We’re a small nonprofit and unfortunately not able to offer application waivers at this time.

  • Black Film Space membership is $75 for one year and includes free applications to all our pipeline programs, free virtual events, discounts, access to our directory and more.

    Click here to learn more and become a member.

  • Log into our membership portal via Heartbeat and you’ll find the application on the community sidebar.

  • Yes.

  • Yes, that’s fine! We’re looking for emerging filmmakers with strong scripts.

  • No, this grant opportunity is for narrative/scripted projects only.

  • Unfortunately, this grant is only for short films.

  • Unfortunately, we can only accept one project per filmmaker.

  • Yes. Collaborative teams are welcome — as long as the lead applicant is serving in all three creative roles (Writer, Director, and Producer), even if they share those responsibilities with others.

    For example, you can apply if you’re the co-writer, co-director, and co-producer of the project. However, if you only serve in one or two of those roles (e.g. just the Writer and Director), you would not be eligible to apply as the lead.

    Only one person from the team should submit the application, and if selected, grant funds will be disbursed to the lead applicant, who can then manage distribution among collaborators if needed.

  • You’re welcome to take on additional roles beyond Writer, Director, and Producer.


    As long as you fulfill those three roles — even if you also act, edit, or handle another part of the production — you’re fully eligible to apply.

  • Unfortunately, no. This grant is only for short films with scripts 20 pages or less.

  • No, you are the copyright owner of the material.

  • Yes. Projects that have already completed production are still eligible to apply.


    If selected, grant funds may be used for post-production, festival submissions, marketing, or distribution costs.

  • While applicants of all backgrounds are welcome to apply, competitive submissions will typically have Black creatives in key leadership roles (Writer, Director, or Producer) and/or center Black stories, characters, or perspectives that align with the mission of Black Film Space.

APPLICATION TIPS

1. Read the Guidelines Carefully: Before starting your application, thoroughly read the grant guidelines and FAQ to understand the eligibility criteria, required materials, and submission deadlines. We recommend that you attend the orientation or watch the replay. We will make the replay available by Thursday, October 23.


2. Craft a Compelling Narrative: Clearly articulate your project's vision, objectives and significance. Explain why your film is important and how it aligns with the grant.

3. Make sure your script is properly formatted: Watch this primer video courtesy of Studio Binder if you need support.

4. Develop a Detailed Budget: Provide a realistic and detailed budget breakdown. Clearly outline how the grant funds will be used and justify each expense to demonstrate financial responsibility and project feasibility. Please include film festivals in your budget. Click here to learn more about budgeting via No Film School and here is a list of suggested templates.

5. Create a Strong Work Plan: Present a clear timeline for your project, including pre-production, production and post-production phases. Show that you have a structured plan to complete the film on time.

6. Proofread and Edit: Ensure your application is free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished, professional application reflects your attention to detail and dedication to your project.

7. Seek Feedback: Before submitting, have trusted colleagues, mentors or friends review your application. Constructive feedback can help you refine your proposal and address any potential weaknesses.

8. Stay Authentic and Passionate: In your artistic statement, be authentic--don't tell us what you think we want to hear. Don't be afraid to be transparent, edgy and your true self. Let your passion for your project shine through. Authenticity and genuine enthusiasm can make your application stand out.