We support artist-driven, non-fiction film and new media storytelling projects that explore aspects of inequality and the organizations and networks supporting these projects. At this time, we do not accept unsolicited Letters of Inquiry (LOI) or proposals from organizations. 


Considerations when applying for film production grants

Submissions for documentary film production grants are currently open and will close at 11:59 PM Eastern Time on Monday, April 1, 2024 . Any submission received before this date will be notified by June 2024 of their inquiry status. 

JustFilms accepts inquiries for direct film production grants year-round, averaging between 1,000 to 1,500 inquiries yearly. While we welcome submissions from any region of the world, we have a particular focus on the areas where the foundation has regional offices. We support 25-30 feature documentary film projects through annual grants, at all stages of production. Unfortunately, we do not fund narrative or scripted projects, or projects led by organizations.

Please note that the Ford Foundation supports many organizations that also make grants for documentary projects. We invite you to explore whether your project might be better suited for support through other programs, many of which are included on resource lists at the International Documentary Association, Sundance Documentary Program, and American Documentary.

All projects submitted for JustFilms grants will be judged on the basis of social and cultural impact, artistic excellence, alignment with Ford Foundation priorities, and creativity and innovation in form. At JustFilms, we’re thinking about our work broadly along these lines where:

  • Political power focuses on a robust civil society and fair governance
  • Economic power focuses on workers’ rights and equitable and just economic policies 
  • Cultural power enables artists and culture bearers to shape narratives that promote equality 

To apply for a grant

Information about your project can be submitted below anytime on or before April 1, 2024 at 11:50 PM ET. The information we request generally aligns with the Documentary Core Application utilized by the IDA, Sundance Documentary Film Program and other funding organizations.

Upon review of your materials by Ford staff, you may receive an invitation to submit additional materials.

Please note that we have very limited staffing and therefore regret that we are unable to respond individually to status inquiries or requests for feedback on your submission at this time.