Catapult Film Fund Development Grant
About this opportunity
The Catapult Film Fund offers one of the most accessible and impactful documentary grants in the United States, supporting filmmakers at the critical development stage with $5,000 to $25,000 and hands-on mentorship. The fund now uses a two-step application process and has helped launch numerous acclaimed documentaries by providing essential early-stage resources when they are hardest to secure.
Application tips
You can apply without a fiscal sponsor, but you will need one to receive the grant if selected. The fund values projects with strong storytelling potential and social relevance. Apply in the cycle that best matches your project's readiness.
Related opportunities
International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam
Opens: November · Closes: February
The IDFA Bertha Fund Classic is one of the most important international funding schemes for documentary filmmakers from underrepresented regions. It offers grants for both project development and production/post-production, helping to bring distinctive non-fiction stories to international audiences. The fund has supported numerous award-winning documentaries since its inception.
Arab Fund for Arts and Culture
Opens: February · Closes: April
AFAC provides grants to support the production of documentary and narrative films by filmmakers from the Arab world. The fund has been instrumental in nurturing a generation of Arab filmmakers, supporting projects from development through post-production with generous grant levels.
British Film Institute
Opens: February · Closes: April
BFI NETWORK England provides production funding for original fiction short films (live action, animation, or immersive/VR) of up to 15 minutes from early career filmmakers. Grants range from GBP 5,000 to GBP 25,000. The fund receives approximately 1,000 applications per round with around 30 projects funded.