Deadline: 31-Jul-2026
The AXS Film Fund is accepting applications from documentary filmmakers and nonfiction media creators, with a focus on supporting individuals living with disabilities and creators from underserved communities. The fund provides grants of up to $10,000, along with stipend support of up to $500, to help advance projects at any stage of development, production, post-production, or distribution.
About the AXS Film Fund
The AXS Film Fund supports creators producing documentary films, experimental nonfiction works, and nonfiction new media projects. The program aims to increase opportunities for underrepresented storytellers and promote greater inclusion within the documentary and media industries.
While the fund particularly encourages applications from individuals living with disabilities and those from underserved communities, creators from all backgrounds are welcome to apply.
Funding Information
Selected creators may receive:
- Grants of up to $10,000
- Funding for as many as five projects annually
- Stipend support of up to $500
Funding may be used to help advance projects through various stages of production and completion.
Applicants may request less than the maximum amount, but stipend requests cannot exceed $500.
Eligible Projects
The fund supports:
- Feature-length documentary films (45 minutes or longer)
- Experimental nonfiction films
- Nonfiction new media projects with a film or video component
Projects may be submitted at any stage, including:
- Pre-production
- Production
- Post-production
- Distribution
Projects produced in languages other than English must include English subtitles.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Apply as an individual
- Serve as the project’s director or producer
- Not be enrolled in a degree-granting academic program
- Meet all application requirements
Applicants may work with a fiscal sponsor if desired.
The fund particularly welcomes applications from:
- Creators living with disabilities
- Filmmakers from underserved communities
- Emerging documentary storytellers
- Independent nonfiction media creators
Ineligible Projects
The following are not eligible for funding:
- Fiction films
- Narrative films based on true stories
- Projects commissioned by another organization or entity
- Incomplete applications
- Applications missing required materials
- Late submissions
- Projects that do not meet documentary or nonfiction requirements
Why This Fund Matters
Documentary and nonfiction storytelling can increase awareness, amplify underrepresented voices, and encourage meaningful social dialogue. The AXS Film Fund helps creators overcome financial barriers and bring important stories to audiences.
By prioritizing accessibility and inclusion, the fund supports a more diverse media landscape and creates opportunities for storytellers whose perspectives are often underrepresented.
How to Apply
- Confirm that your project meets the documentary or nonfiction eligibility requirements.
- Ensure you are serving as the project’s director or producer.
- Prepare all required application materials and supporting documents.
- Determine the amount of funding being requested.
- Include English subtitles if the project is not in English.
- Submit a complete application before the deadline.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly explain the project’s story, purpose, and impact.
- Demonstrate why the project is important and timely.
- Provide a realistic production plan and budget.
- Highlight the project’s progress and current stage.
- Ensure all supporting materials are complete and professionally prepared.
- Follow all eligibility and submission requirements carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much funding is available?
Selected creators may receive grants of up to $10,000, with additional stipend support of up to $500.
What types of projects are eligible?
Feature-length documentary films, experimental nonfiction projects, and nonfiction new media projects that include a film or video component.
Can projects in development apply?
Yes. Projects at any stage, from pre-production to distribution, are eligible.
Are fiction films eligible?
No. The fund only supports documentary and nonfiction projects.
Who can apply?
Individuals aged 18 or older who serve as the director or producer of the project and are not enrolled in a degree-granting program.
Do projects need to be in English?
No. However, projects in other languages must include English subtitles.
Can students apply?
No. Individuals enrolled in degree-granting programs are not eligible.
Conclusion
The AXS Film Fund offers valuable financial support for documentary filmmakers and nonfiction media creators seeking to advance impactful storytelling projects. With grants of up to $10,000 and a commitment to supporting creators living with disabilities and underserved communities, the fund provides an important opportunity to bring meaningful nonfiction stories to wider audiences.
For more information, visit AXS Film Fund.