Out on Film Filmmaker Fund 2025/2026

The Out on Film Filmmaker Fund supports LGBTQ+ filmmakers, focusing on projects by queer storytellers based in Georgia and the Southeastern United States. Grants of up to $2,500 are available to help filmmakers complete narrative, documentary, experimental, animated, or episodic projects that explore LGBTQ+ experiences. This initiative is designed to amplify traditionally underrepresented voices, such as Lesbians, people of color, transgender and gender-expansive individuals, and disabled communities, while prioritizing projects with LGBTQ+ cast and crew. Applications open on December 2, 2024, and close on February 28, 2025. Eligible projects must have completed at least 85% of production and be in the post-production phase or ready to begin post-production. Funding is intended for finishing work, marketing, or inclusion-related efforts such as closed/open captions and audio descriptions. Preference is given to southern-based filmmakers and projects that authentically represent LGBTQ+ communities. Applicants must submit a detailed package including a full synopsis, distribution strategy, summary budget, production schedule, financial plan, key cast and crew bios, a chain of title summary, and a rough cut or assembly edit of the project. All materials must be submitted electronically via the Completion Fund Application form. The selection process involves initial reviews by Out on Film’s programming team, followed by evaluations by a panel of programmers, staff, and industry representatives. Selection criteria emphasize the quality and originality of the LGBTQ+ subject matter, the storytelling’s distinctiveness, evidence of directorial skill in the submitted work, and authentic LGBTQ+ representation on the creative team. Recipients will sign an agreement acknowledging Out on Film’s support in credits and promotional materials and must grant Out on Film the first right of refusal for the Atlanta premiere. Regular updates on the project’s status are required, along with adherence to the outlined timeline and significant project updates. Grant announcements will be made in April 2025. Out on Film reserves the right to amend its guidelines and policies, request additional information, and make final decisions on all applications. Questions about the program can be directed to the Out on Film team through their application portal.