[Ford Foundation](https://www.fordfoundation.org)

October 2026 (Fall round) | April 2027 (Spring round)

Grants typically range from $25,000 to $100,000 per project.

Supports artist-driven, feature-length documentary films that creatively engage with social justice issues aligned with Ford Foundation’s mission.

--- ## Description This grant opportunity, offered through the Ford Foundation’s JustFilms program, provides funding to support the production of artist-driven, feature-length documentary films that address urgent social justice issues. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate intersectional representation, innovative storytelling, and strong alignment with the Ford Foundation’s mission to challenge inequality. Submissions are welcomed globally, with a particular focus on regions where the foundation has established offices. The program emphasizes creative control by filmmakers and seeks works that challenge conventional perspectives and have the potential for significant social and cultural impact. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026: Open call submission deadline — Fall round (anticipated/projected) - April 2027: Open call submission deadline — Spring round (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant size: $25,000 to $100,000 per project. - Funding can support development, production, or post-production stages. - Grantees may be eligible for continued support based on project progress and alignment with priorities. --- ## Eligibility - Open to filmmakers worldwide; particular focus on regions with Ford Foundation offices. - Projects must be feature-length documentaries (minimum running time of 50 minutes) where the filmmaker(s) retain creative control. - Eligible applicants: production companies (US or international), sole proprietors/single-member LLCs, or projects with fiscal sponsorship. - Ineligible: student films, narrative films, short films, commissioned films (where the filmmaker is not the rights holder), episodic series, new media (AR/VR), podcasts, films already premiered or broadcast, or impact/outreach campaigns. - Non-US organizations may apply but must provide legal documentation and comply with local regulations. --- ## Application Process - Applications are accepted during the designated open call periods (anticipated Fall and Spring rounds). - Initial submission generally follows the standardized [Non-Fiction Core Application](https://www.documentary.org/nonfiction-core-application-project) format. - After review, selected projects may be invited to submit additional materials. - Notification of advancement occurs approximately four months after the close of the open call; grant disbursement is typically six to eight months after the deadline. - The foundation cannot provide individual feedback or status updates on submissions. - A verifiable entity (such as a fiscal sponsor) is required to receive grant funds. --- ## Additional Information - Projects are evaluated based on: - Alignment with Ford Foundation priorities and social justice themes (30%) - Intersectional representation (25%) - Innovation in storytelling (25%) - Production viability and independence (20%) - The grant does not support lobbying or legislative advocacy. - Only production funding is available through the open call; organizational funding is by invitation only. - For technical support or eligibility questions, applicants may contact the program via email. --- ## External Links - [JustFilms Application Program Page](https://www.fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/justfilms/justfilms-application) - [JustFilms Open Call FAQ](https://www.fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/justfilms/justfilms-application/faq/) - [Ford Foundation Grant Opportunities](https://www.fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/grant-opportunities/) - [Documentary Core Application (IDA)](https://www.documentary.org/nonfiction-core-application-project) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |-------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [justfilmsnotifications@fordfoundation.org](mailto:justfilmsnotifications@fordfoundation.org) | | Ford Foundation Phone | +1 212-573-5000 | | Contact Form | [Ford Foundation Contact Page](https://www.fordfoundation.org/contact/) | ---

JustFilms Application

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