c2025 AND 2026 GRANT CYCLES

The 2025 grant competition has now closed, and this year’s winners will be announced soon. 

We will open the 2026 grant competition in January of 2026, with an estimated application deadline of April 30, 2026.

ABOUT THE AWARD (2025 cycle description, dates and details subject to change for 2026)

The Emerging Artist Film Grant from the OUT at the Movies International Film Festival is intended to supplement the budget for an emerging LGBTQIA+ filmmaker to finish their short documentary or short narrative film. The film must be at least 50% through principal photography, or already in post-production, by the date of submission, to qualify for this grant. The application asks for a link to review a raw string out, selected scenes, or sizzle reel.

The first place winner will receive a $3000 monetary award, along with access to a group of mentors from various disciplines within the film production world. Additionally, they will receive an all-access pass to attend the 2025 OATM Film Festival, which will take place in late September, and the opportunity to screen their finished film at the 2026 OUT at the Movies International Film Festival. The monetary award will be administered upon receipt of a rough cut of the film (a full story assembly, or more fleshed out rough cut).

The first and second runners-up will also receive access to the mentorship, as well as passes to the 2025 OATM Film Festival. These winners will also be given the chance to screen their finished films at the 2026 OUT at the Movies International Film Festival.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 30, 2025, Midnight

REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS: May 1 – May 31, 2025

AWARD NOTIFICATION: June 2, 2025

QUESTIONS?

You can contact Max Cullen, Director of Operations & Marketing, at maxcullen@gmail.com.