Call for Feature-length Documentaries and Shorts (US)

Each year, BPM issues an open call for feature-length documentaries and shorts (nonfiction or scripted) that are currently in research and development, pre-production, production or post-production.  All projects should be suitable for public media distribution.

What they’re looking for?

• They are looking for traditional media projects that present the voice of the Black community as it relates to the changing environment.  The range of creative approaches under the content priority is wide and varied.  Proposals should present a compelling story, show a clear understanding of the subject, and detail an original and creative stylistic approach designed to illuminate the issues, spark conversation and point to equitable solutions for the current crises.
• They are accepting projects in all stages – research and development, pre-production, production and post-production.
• They are grateful to partner with the Redford Center which shares the mission to meet the climate crisis with stories that foster equitable and inclusive futures. Themes have emerged that are helpful in broadening the awareness of all the climate stories in everyday lives –
  • Understanding the crisis – personal, community, global impact
  • Managing Crises – extreme weather, rising sea levels, species extinction
  • Climate Education – schools and communities
  • Environmental racism – displacement, threatened indigenous lands, food insecurity, barriers to outdoor access, water rights
  • Impact on Health – mental health, medical illnesses
  • Building Sustainable Industries – fashion, farming, culinary science
  • Climate Policies – local and national government policies
  • Solutions – climate innovation and technology, conservation, land stewardship.

Prize Information

• Production funding will be awarded to projects in two categories.
  • In the broadcast length/documentary category, up to five (5) projects will receive $40,000 as well as an invitation to pitch for additional funding at PitchBLACK in April 2024.
  • At PitchBLACK, one broadcast length/documentary project will receive up to $150,000 in production funding.
  • In the shorts (documentary or scripted) category, one stand-alone or a limited series will receive $30,000 in production funding.

Eligibility Criteria

• The applicant must
  • be the project’s producer or director,
  • be a US citizen,
  • have a minimum of three years professional producing and/or directing experience, or have a senior producer attached to the project.
• Key creative personnel (producer, director, writer, or editor) must include a person of color;
• All submissions must include a video sample. Projects in research and development must include a full-length completed work by the applicant. Projects in production must include a 10-minute sample of the project that is being submitted. Projects in post-production or further must have a full-length rough or fine cut to be considered;
• The applicant must be able to complete the project within 18 months;
• The applicant must hold artistic, budgetary and editorial control, and must own the copyright of the proposed project;
• Projects or production entities that are foreign-based, owned or controlled are not eligible. Neither are industrial, promotional or student films.

For more information, visit BPM.