New York-based Creative Capital provides both funding and advisory support to filmmakers and other artists. According to the company's website, grants are awarded based on an open-call process.
Artists and filmmakers submit an inquiry and, if selected, proceed with a full application including samples. The full applications undergo a scoring process; those applications that make it through scoring receive a panel review that includes a vote. The finalists receive a recommendation to Creative Capital's Board. Grants are awarded every four years for filmmakers.
The San Francisco Film Society/Kenneth Rainin Foundation (SFFS/KRF) will award several million dollars in grants for narrative filmmaking until at least 2015.
As of the spring of 2010, award amounts range between $10,000 and $50,000 for screenwriting, pre-production and post-production. The intent of the grants is to fund projects that highlight social issues such as civil rights, social justice and anti-discrimination. Applicants need to have a connection with the San Francisco Bay area and must use a portion of the funds (percentages vary by application types) in that area. SFFS/KRF employs an open application policy, but non-SFFS members must pay an entrance fee. Those applying must send a letter of inquiry first and, if accepted, then a complete application. A panel selects grant winners.
The Sundance Institute provides grants to independent filmmakers working on documentaries that focus on "current human rights issues, freedom of expression, social justice, civil liberties, and exploring critical issues of our time."
Grant proposals can be submitted for projects in the development stage and projects in the production/post-production stage. The Sundance Institute reports that grants average $20,000 or less. Prior grantees may be eligible for an additional engagement grant. Applicants for a development grant must provide a director sample or visual work demonstrating point-of-view and storytelling ability. Production and post-production applicants must provide 20 minutes of edited, continuous material, according to the Sundance Institute. Grants are open to both domestic and international documentary filmmakers. Winners are announced two to three times yearly.