Research and Development Grants

California Humanities accepted applications for the 2024 cycle of its California Documentary Project (CDP) Research and Development Grants. These grants were designed to support the early-stage development of film, audio, and digital media projects that illuminate California’s diverse stories and provide thoughtful context through the humanities. With a longstanding commitment to storytelling, California Humanities has funded over 250 media projects since 2003, offering critical support to projects that broaden the public’s understanding of the state’s history, culture, and communities. The CDP Research and Development category offered up to $15,000 for projects in their formative stages. Funding was intended to strengthen the humanities components of each project, supporting activities such as research, treatment development, and engagement with humanities advisors. Projects were expected to draw from humanities disciplines—including history, philosophy, literature, and others—to offer analytical depth and interpretive frameworks capable of engaging both California and national audiences. Applicants were required to center their projects on California topics and design them for broad public access through broadcast, streaming, community presentations, or educational distribution. The program placed particular emphasis on inclusive storytelling, especially from communities historically excluded from mainstream narratives. Projects highlighting Indigenous and Native American experiences in California were strongly encouraged. Eligibility was limited to nonprofit organizations and public entities such as universities, libraries, museums, and tribal governments. Individuals could apply only through a qualified fiscal sponsor. All applicants were required to include at least two humanities advisors to guide the project’s development and be in good standing with California Humanities if they had previously received funding. A prior work sample from the project director was also required. Grant funds could be used for professional services, travel, pre-production planning, and rental of equipment (if less expensive than purchase). A 1:1 non-federal match was required, with all matching funds to be used during the grant period. Ineligible activities included advocacy, promotional media, and projects already in post-production. Funded recipients were expected to participate in evaluation activities and submit final materials upon completion. Applications were accepted online until 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time on November 4, 2024. An informational webinar was held on September 17, 2024. Notifications were issued by April 1, 2025, and the grant period runs through March 31, 2027, providing two full years for research and development activities. Applicants needing accessibility or technical assistance were advised to contact California Humanities prior to the deadline.

Attend the application webinar; involve advisors early; ensure your project engages statewide/national audiences and uses humanities scholarship effectively.