Ford Foundation JustFilms Grants

Ford Foundation JustFilms Grants

Website: https://www.fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/justfilms/justfilms-inquiry/

 212-573-5000

 212-351-3677

 1440 Broadway, New York, New York, Unknown

We believe that artist-driven moving image storytelling is vital to the pursuit of justice and equity in the 21st century. To flourish, storytellers and their networks need aligned creative, financial, and professional support, as well as distribution systems that enable them to reach a wide range of audiences. Historically, the field of independently produced film and emerging media has been under-resourced—and affordable, reliable access to the work for audiences remains a challenge.

To address this, JustFilms supports ideas, individuals, institutions, and networks that work to reduce inequality through film, video, and emerging media platforms, with a special focus on documentary practices. We strive to increase resources in the field, develop artists as leaders, and connect storytellers with the tools and talent they need to do their best work, amplify their message, and extend the impact of their projects.

JustFilms projects are inspired by courageous individuals and undaunted communities seeking justice. These powerful stories expand opportunities for civic engagement and affirm the central role of cultural strategies in social transformation. Our strategy is informed by the foundation’s long history of supporting independent documentary film, public media institutions, artists, and freedom of expression—all of which have had a profound effect on the public consciousness.

JustFilms accepts letters of inquiry for grants year round, averaging between 800 and 1,000 inquiries. Our funds are limited, and we are able to support only a small percentage of these projects through direct grants. JustFilms strongly advises that you use the priorities and guiding application questions below to determine whether your project might be competitive in this process. Please note that JustFilms also makes partnership grants, which are allocated as JustFilms partners described here. We invite you to explore whether your project might be better suited for support through one of these partners.

All projects submitted for JustFilms grants will be judged on the basis of:

  • Artistic excellence
  • Contemporary relevance
  • Potential for strategic impact
  • Alignment with Ford priorities
  • Potential to transform stereotypes, beliefs, and value systems
  • Creativity and innovation in form
  • Focus on vulnerable population

For more information about this ongoing grant opportunity, please click here.