Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema and The Law Firm of Stacey A. Davis have partnered to create the Black Lens Filmmaker Grant with a goal to support Black voices in film. The Black Lens Filmmaker Grant invites filmmakers of all levels and welcomes stories of all stripes. Our mission is to amplify Black voices through the art of storytelling.
Applications for the 2022 Grant are now open – apply here.
Qualifications:
• 18 Years or Older
• Artists who identify as Black and who are in development, pre-production,
production, or post-production on a motion picture project
• Resident of Alabama
Deadlines:
• June 15 – Applications Open
• July 20 – Applications Close
• The Grant recipient will be announced at the
annual Sidewalk Film Festival awards ceremony held each August
Awards:
• Grant Recipient – $1,000 cash prize funded by The Law Firm of Stacey A. Davis
and 1-year Director’s membership to the Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema
($2,000 value + 1 free year of education/outreach programs)
• Every applicant who completes the application by the designated deadline
will receive a 1-year Sidewalk Filmmaker/Industry membership to the
Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema ($100 value)
FAQ
What types of projects will be considered for the Black Lens Filmmaker Grant?
Submitted projects may include:
- Feature-length films
- Short films
- Serialized/episodic work
- Web series
- Virtual or augmented reality, or other immersive/interactive work
We accept all genres/types, including fiction, nonfiction, and hybrid.
Projects can be at any stage of production:
- Research/Development
- Pre-Production
- Production
- Post-production
How do I know if it’s the right time to submit my project for this Grant?
Ultimately, that’s your decision. However, we welcome filmmakers at all levels of experience, and
projects at all stages of development.
When will I hear back from about the status of my submission?
You will receive a confirmation email once the application is submitted. The winner of the Grant will be
announced at the annual Sidewalk Film Festival Awards Ceremony. Following the Festival, each
applicant will receive further information about how to claim their one-year Filmmaker/Industry
membership to the Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema.
Does each applicant really receive a Filmmaker/Industry Membership?
Yes, each eligible applicant who submits a completed application by the stated deadline will receive a
one-year Filmmaker/Industry level membership to the Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema.
Can I submit multiple film projects?
Each applicant may submit one application per grant cycle.
Does my application have to be in English?
Yes. While we will consider projects in any language, the application itself must be written in English.
Can I re-submit the same project in a subsequent grant cycle?
No. Applicants may not submit the same project for consideration twice.
How is the winner of the Grant determined?
The winner will be chosen by The Law Firm of Stacey A. Davis based on the submitted application. The
judge’s decision is final.
What should I do if I have a technical question or problem with my application?
Email our Director of Education and Outreach Jessica Chriesman, at jessica@sidewalkfest.com with any questions