SHIFTING VOICES FUND FAQs

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

    • The deadline for this round of The Shifting Voices Fund is 11:59 PT February 14, 2025.

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

    • We are currently only accepting submissions from films within the United States.

  • 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 documentary films by emerging filmmakers from underrepresented communities from across the United States. In particular, we are looking to support stories that spotlight historically excluded cultures, history and experiences in America. While we welcome projects from all backgrounds, special attention will be paid to Chicago-based films and filmmakers.

  • 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: March 2025

    • Round 2: Semi-Finalists April 2025

  • 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 5 minutes. It cannot be less than 2 minutes. Also only the first 5 minutes of a sample longer than 5 minutes will 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. 

  • If I have In-Kind contributions of things like rental space, gear, or other services should I include those in my budget?

    • Yes, those items should be included in the budget and indicated that they were given In-Kind so that we have a full picture of your budget.

  • Are there common budget submission mistakes?

    • The main one we see is not paying yourself and/or your other key personnel in hopes of getting paid at a later date. While we know that sometimes these expenses are deferred until the end of the project they should always be included, and you should always be paid for your time.

  • 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?

    • We anticipate grant funding to be delivered throughout 2025.

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