The Sundance Institute Documentary Fund supports filmmakers worldwide in the development, production, and post-production of cinematic documentaries on a wide range of contemporary topics and themes. For over two decades, the fund has been a stable source of nonrecoupable funding, supporting work that expresses the world in creative, complex, beautiful, and provocative ways. We remain committed to nonfiction projects that elevate and advance cultural dialogue, expand the form through creativity and innovation, and have the potential to generate social impact around some of the most compelling issues of our time.

  
**Granting Pool**

25-30 projects per year

**Development (up to $40,000)**:

Development applicants are encouraged (but not required) to include visual material such as scene selects, teasers, pitch decks, or other edited footage. Access to location and characters must be confirmed and the proposal should clearly articulate a visual language and central questions that indicate a layered and nuanced approach. Prior work samples are strongly recommended.

**Production/Post-production (up to $100,000)**:

Production applicants are required to submit a sample of at least 10 minutes and encouraged to submit a sample between 10 to 20 minutes. The sample should demonstrate your access to characters, visual treatment, and the developing tone and style. We encourage applicants to submit a complete scene that provides the viewer insight into the team’s ability to communicate their intention.

Post-production applications require a sample of at least 20 minutes that demonstrates access to characters, story arc or concept, and visual treatment. If available, a rough cut may be submitted.

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