lavine/ken burns prize for film

Bestowed annually by the Librarian of Congress in partnership with The Better Angels Society, a cash prize of $200,000 is awarded to one winner, a secondary prize of $50,000 to one runner-up, and $25,000 to each of four finalists. Submissions for the 2025 Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film are now open and close on May 1 at 11:59 pm PT. The ceremony will take place on October 28 at the Library of Congress.

Does your film qualify?

The Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film (Prize for Film) accepts films that focus on an American historical subject, issue, or person within a time frame occurring at least twenty years prior to submission that present a variety of perspectives grounded in extensive and thorough research. The majority of the film must be historically focused to qualify. We invite submissions employing all types of storytelling devices and archival materials.

At the time of submission, a full rough or fine cut must be completed (50 minutes or longer). The film may not be distributed, in any media (including theatrically, or via the Internet, physical media, or any form of television) before the award event. Limited, non-theatrical screenings, such as at film festivals, are acceptable.

All applicants to the Prize for Film can opt-in to be considered for the Better Angels Lavine Fellowship, a customized mentorship program and cash prize of $5,000. 20-minute submissions will be considered for the Fellowship only.