Through its open call, JustFilms supports artist-driven, feature-length documentary films that creatively intersect with the social justice issues that are central to the Ford Foundation’s mission. All projects submitted for JustFilms grants will be assessed on the basis of alignment with Ford Foundation priorities, intersectional representation, innovation in storytelling, and production viability & independence, as well as social and cultural impact. At this time, we do not accept unsolicited Letters of Inquiry (LOI), proposals from organizations, or for impact campaigns.

While we welcome submissions from any region of the world, we have a particular focus on the areas where the foundation has regional offices. We support 25-30 new feature documentary film projects, at all stages of production, through annual grants.

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Submissions for documentary film production grants are currently open and will close at 11:59 PM Eastern Time on Friday, December 6, 2024. Any submission received before this date will be notified by April 2025 of their inquiry status.

Please review our FAQ before submitting your proposal.

Eligibility requirements: 

To be considered for funding, your project must be a documentary feature film (running time of at least 50 minutes) in which the filmmaker/s have creative control. We welcome applications for direct content development, production, or post-production.

The open call does not support student films, narrative films, short films, commissioned films where the filmmaker is not the rights holder to the project, episodic series, new media (AR, VR), podcasts, films that have already premiered or broadcast, or impact or outreach campaigns.

Evaluative Criteria & Rubric: 

When evaluating production submissions for grant funding, reviewers will use the following weighted criteria to prioritize recommended projects:

1. Foundation’s Thematic Alignment (30%): Assess whether the project aligns with the JustFilms strategy. Evaluate how well the project addresses gender, race, and disability justice themes. Does the project offer an analysis of political, economic, or cultural power? Also, consider whether the project aligns with other Ford program strategies or regional offices’ priorities.
2. Intersectional Representation (25%): Assess the project’s ability to provide an intersectional analysis and represent diverse perspectives. Consider the geographic focus, audience engagement, and support for underrepresented filmmakers.
3. Innovation in Storytelling (25%): Evaluate the project’s innovative approach to content creation for advancing justice. Assess its ability to creatively reshape narratives and challenge conventional perspectives.
4. Production Viability and Independence (20%): Assess the project’s independence in production and its feasibility. Are the filmmakers skilled and resourced enough to produce the proposed project?