September News

Dancin' in September

Welcome to September WIFSFBA members! Can you believe fall is approaching already? Almost time to get those fall sweaters out and walk through those leaves. We in the Bay Area know that September is actually the best weather around here so enjoy it out there this month!

September 15th marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month, a time for us to celebrate and honor the Hispanic & Latino/a/x community and their invaluable contributions to the entertainment industry. Here are a few film-related highlights of what’s going on around town in honor:

          

You are the Story: Intro to Dramatic Writing with Josefina Lopez

Date: September 2, 10am - September 3, 5pm PDT

Location: Aptos - in a private vineyard - Address given after registration Aptos, CA 95003


“The Watsonville Film Festival and the Latinx Screenwriting Academy invite you to a very special workshop led by award winning writer Josefina Lopez. In the comfort and safety of a private and picturesque vineyard in Aptos, California, learn the secrets of writing quickly and making your stories unforgettable and powerful. Learn what it takes to become a professional Playwright, TV Writer, Screenwriter, Novelist. ALL WRITING LEVELS WELCOME - whether you're an experienced creative writer or new to dramatic writing, you will get insights into your writing and why you write and what stories you will write. Please bring your notebook and pens to write. This is an intensive writing workshop and Life Coaching retreat.”


MORE INFO & Tickets: You are the Story tickets

                                                                               

Beyond Status: Film Showcase

Date: September 7, 7-10pm PDT

Location: MACLA/Movimiento de Arte y Cultura Latino Americana

510 S 1st St San Jose, CA 95113


🎬 MACLA in Partnership with The Center for Cultural Power Presents: Beyond Status Film Showcase 🎬

“Discover a powerful narrative through the lens of art at the Beyond Status Film Showcase, brought to you by MACLA in collaboration with The Center for Cultural Power.

Beyond Status is a compelling collection of short films crafted by migrant storytellers. These stories, written and directed by undocumented and previously undocumented artists, redefine the narrative of migrant experiences in today's complex political and personal landscapes.”


MORE INFO & Tickets: Beyond Status: Film Showcase


Selena Screening

Date: September 24, 6pm. Doors at 5:30pm

Location: The Cut Outdoor Cinema at the Crossing

250 Main St. San Francisco, CA 94105 


“The true story of Selena, a Texas-born Tejano singer who rose from cult status to performing at the Astrodome.

Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, The Cut Outdoor Cinema at The Crossing is the Bay's first year-round outdoor cinema. Come by with family and friends for an unforgettable open-air theater experience featuring a handpicked selection of iconic favorites, cult classics, and local community film programming.”


MORE INFO & Tickets: Selena screening tickets


Punto de Encuentro Film Screening + Discussion

Date: September 22, 7-9:30pm PDT

Location: La Peña Cultural Center

3105 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, CA 94705


“Join us for the West Coast Premiere of Punto de Encuentro (2022)! Event includes community discussion with director/producer Paulina Costa. Punto de Encuentro ("Meeting Point") is a film directed by Roberto Baeza that reveals the intimate process between filmmakers Alfredo and Paulina, as they attempt to recreate what their fathers experienced in Villa Grimaldi.

We are going to be screening the film (for the first time ever on the West Coast) and after that Paulina Costa (director/producer) will be joining us virtually for a moderated community discussion!

This event is part of our month-long commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the U.S.-backed coup that overthrew the government of Salvador Allende in Chile in 1973. This painful historical event marks the origin of La Peña as a community center and, to this day, it is the backbone of our mission to promote social justice and intercultural understanding through the arts. Please get your ticket and support our 50th Commemoration. Your ticket includes popcorn!”

MORE INFO & Tickets: Punto de Encuentro Screening


Corpus & Columbus on Trial Films Screening

Date: September 9, 4-6pm PDT

Location: Clarion Performing Arts Center

2 Waverly Place San Francisco, CA 94108


Two  short films screening from director Lourdes Portillo: 


MORE INFO & Tickets: Corpus & Columbus on Trial


Family Movie: The Book of Life

Date: September 24, 2- 4pm PDT 

Location: Sunnyvale Public Library
665 W. Olive Ave
Sunnyvale, California 94086


Bring your own snacks and enjoy a fun movie with the family! In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, this month's movie will be The Book of Life, rated PG (The Book of Life IMDB)


MORE INFO: Family Movie: The Book of Life | Kids Events | Sunnyvale, CA





Check the White Box ✔️


My name is Julie Colleen Rubio, and I am proud of my Mexican heritage. I want to share a bit about my background. My mother was born in Indiana and had a mix of English, German, Irish, Spanish and French ancestry. My father was born in California. His  parents were Mexican (Native American). They were field workers in the San Fernando Valley.  My great grandparents immigrated from Chihuahua, Mexico.

From a young age, my father was taught not to value his own culture. It was ingrained in him to disregard his heritage. This mindset carried over to my upbringing as well. Both of my parents instructed me to check the "white" box when filling out forms at school that asked for my ethnic background. They believed it would be easier for me.   They wished for me to have an easier life. However, this desire for ease often clashed with the reality of my identity as a person with a brown complexion, the last name Rubio, and the love of my Mexican grandparents. This resulted in a confusing internal struggle for me. How could I value something I was told to keep as a secret? 

The discrimination my father and his four brothers experienced was disheartening. They were physically punished and beaten at school if they spoke Spanish. However, at home, they were free to embrace their language traditions and enjoy the incredible Mexican cuisine lovingly prepared by their hardworking mother who ran a fruit stand while their father worked his fingers to the bone in the fields.  They  felt the need to suppress their true selves at school.  Consequently, all four brothers ended up marrying Caucasian women and raising their children to check the white box. 

I have fond memories of attending our Mexican fiestas in the park and enjoying the amazing music, food, and laughter. I loved  my grandparents dearly. Unfortunately, when I was five years old, both of my grandparents passed away, just six months apart. The arduous labor of working in the fields under the scorching heat, coupled with the lack of proper nutrition and healthcare, took a toll on their bodies. Sadly, my grandparents passed away at the ages of 64 and 65, much earlier than they should have. Their premature deaths serve as a stark reminder of the challenging conditions they endured and the sacrifices they made to provide for their family. As you can imagine, I was completely heartbroken. My grandmother succumbed to diabetes, and my grandfather to a heart attack (I believe my grandfather died of a broken heart). My father and his brothers never spoke again after their parents' death. With their passing, I felt like I had lost a significant part of my heritage. It took me years to rediscover and reconnect with that heritage, but once I did, I held onto it tightly. It has become one of the most important aspects of who I am. And I no longer check the “white” box.

My personal history highlights the complex dynamics and pressures faced by individuals within a multicultural society. It is a reminder of the importance of embracing and celebrating diverse cultures while challenging the biases that seek to marginalize them. I am immensely grateful for the limited time I had with my grandparents. They instilled in me a deep appreciation and value for our Mexican roots. Whenever someone asks about my background, I proudly declare that I am Mexican first. It is a testament to the lasting impact my grandparents had on me and the significance I place on embracing and honoring my cultural identity.

As a Latina Filmmaker, and President of Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area, I stand proud and united with you all as we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month. This is a time to honor and recognize the remarkable contributions of Hispanic/Latino filmmakers, actors, and artists who have profoundly influenced the world of cinema.

Our diverse community has been privileged to witness the incredible achievements of Hispanic filmmakers who have shattered barriers, defied stereotypes, and shared stories that resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. From the groundbreaking works of Guillermo del Toro and Alfonso Cuarón to the visionary films of Patricia Cardoso, Eva Longoria, and Mariem Pérez Riera, their talent, creativity, and unique perspectives have left an indelible mark.

Within the SF Bay Area, we embrace diversity and inclusivity, striving to amplify the voices of underrepresented filmmakers, including those from the Hispanic/Latino community. We actively support and showcase their work through film festivals, screenings, and panel discussions. We believe in the power of storytelling to inspire empathy, raise awareness, and foster a more inclusive society.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, I urge you to explore the exceptional films created by Hispanic/Latino filmmakers. Discover the captivating narratives and powerful storytelling of movies such as Frida by director Julie Taymor, Real Women Have Curves by director Patricia Cardoso, City of God produced by Andrea Barata Ribeiro, East Side Sushi produced by (me) Julie Rubio, and Roma by Alfonso Cuarón. By engaging with their work, attending film festivals, and supporting independent theaters, we contribute to the growth and recognition of Hispanic/Latino artists in the industry.

Films by Hispanic/Latino filmmakers: 

List of Hispanic/Latino actors:

I appreciate all the Hispanic/Latino actors and filmmakers who came before me, allowing me to see myself on the big screen and embracing our heritage. Thank you for checking the Hispanic/Latino box. 

Let's stand together as allies, advocates, and admirers of the beautiful Hispanic/Latino community. Join us in celebrating their remarkable achievements and let their stories enrich our lives and broaden our perspectives. Happy National Hispanic Heritage Month!

Written by,

Julie Rubio 

President of Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area

Letter from President Julie Rubio

As President of Women in Film, San Francisco Bay Area, I had the distinct privilege of moderating a talk for the extraordinary film 7000 Miles during the esteemed Cinequest Film Festival. Before the film, we had a lively members meet up. It was fantastic to see everyone in person again at SoFA Market for an engaging mixer. Our remarkable members and their guests who showed up in force to celebrate this empowering film deserve heartfelt thanks.


My heart overflows with appreciation for the steadfast commitment of my board of directors at Women in Film SF Bay Area. Their unwavering dedication serves as a beacon of inspiration. 


This occasion was nothing less than a celebration of community and cinematic brilliance. The vibrant discussion with the gifted filmmakers Amy Glazer and Actor/Producer Alixzandra Dove was truly engaging.


Congratulations to the talented cast and crew of 7000milesfilm. Their exceptional work echoes with profound emotional resonance, serving as a testament to the spirit of aloha. I express my gratitude for their monumental impact on independent cinema, and congratulations are in order for the stellar work of their predominantly female crew.


In the spirit of community, we urged our audience to extend their support to the Maui fire survivors. Let's keep them in our thoughts, prayers, and donations, to the cause, Maui Nui Strong. 


I extend a special note of gratitude to our devoted board members - Diane Walsh, Carol Lee Hall, Nil Unerdem, Ami Zins, Kelli White, and Nichole Carlson, for bringing this event to fruition. Your dedication is the engine that drives our success.


With warm regards,

Julie Rubio

President, Women in Film, San Francisco Bay Area


WHERE TO DONATE ONLINE to help Maui.


Song to share: Aloha Aina Meds - Kuulei Music & Ikaakamai

WGA Strike Info Podcast

“Want to know more about these strikes? Season Four of Media & Monuments kicks off with two episodes all about the current entertainment industry strikes. First up is my conversation with TV writer, standup comedian, and podcaster, Robby Slowik, all about the WGA strike. As of today, they’ve been on strike for a whopping 117 days. Give the episode a listen to find out more about the demands, the conditions that led to the strike, solidarity with other unions, and more!" 

Listen here: 


S04E01: “Spotlighting the Writer’s Guild of America Strike”

mediaandmonuments.com

Apple Podcasts

Spotif

To learn more about the WGA strike, visit WGA Contract 2023 

To learn more about the WGA (West): Writers Guild 

To learn more about the WGA (East):  Writers Guild of America, East 

To donate to the Entertainment Community Fund: Entertainment Community Fund

Important Women Who Helped Shape Film & Cinema History

Ongoing Newsletter Series - by Tasha Nesbitt

There have been many important women trailblazers in film and cinema history who have made significant contributions to the industry as directors, producers, screenwriters, actors and more. 


In each monthly newsletter, we will highlight a different one:


MARY PICKFORD (GLADYS MARIE SMITH)


Mary Pickford (also known as Gladys Marie Smith) was a Canadian-born American actress, producer, and businesswoman, known for her pioneering work in the early years of Hollywood. She was born on April 8, 1892, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and passed away on May 29, 1979, in Santa Monica, California.


Pickford began her acting career in vaudeville and theatre before transitioning to film in the early 1900s. She quickly became one of the most popular actresses in Hollywood, starring in dozens of films throughout her career. Pickford was known for her youthful appearance, and often played younger characters on screen, earning the nickname "America's Sweetheart."


In addition to her acting work, Pickford was also a producer and businesswoman. She co-founded United Artists in 1919 with Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and D.W. Griffith, giving them more creative control over their films and helping to establish a new era of independent filmmaking.


Pickford was also known for her philanthropic work, and was one of the founding members of the Motion Picture Relief Fund, which provided financial assistance to actors in need.


Throughout her career, Pickford won numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to the film industry, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the film "Coquette" (1929). She retired from acting in 1933, but continued to work as a producer and philanthropist until her death.


Mary Pickford's pioneering work in Hollywood helped to shape the film industry as we know it today. She was a trailblazer for women in the industry, and her legacy continues to be celebrated and honored to this day.


By Tasha Nesbitt

Board of Advisors, WIFSFBA 2023-Present

Former WIFSFBA President 2019-2022


*This article was researched and written with the help of ChatGPT & Jasper.ai, artificial intelligence driven writing tools.


Stay tuned for this series and our next featured filmmaker in the next newsletter!


WIFSFBA UPDATES:

Thanks for coming out to the Cinequest WIFSFBA 

presentation of 7000 Miles!


We had a great event on 8/20 Sunday at the Cinequest film festival at the premiere of the film 7000 Miles! Thanks to all our members and board for coming out for the meetup, the film, and participating  in the Q&A afterwards.

Members in the News

Nil Unerdem, WIFSFBA Secretary, was interviewed by Play It Forward, a forthcoming platform to make filmmaker recognition & film distribution socially equitable & culturally responsible. Play It Forward is sponsored by DigiPops.TV. Nil talks about her short film “Pearl in the Window '' with Kostia Rubchinsky of DigiPops, who has some insightful questions about the themes and origin of the idea for the film. Check it out below! 

PEARL IN THE WINDOW | a #shortfilm by Nil Unerdem about #isolation and #connection

One  min short: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn

Posters: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter

Nil also placed in the Screencraft Feature Competition as a Semi-finalist this year (Screencraft Feature Competition Semi-finalists), and is attending the Cinestory Retreat with her horror comedy feature Human Stalk.

Do you have news you’d like to share with fellow members? 

We’d love to hear from members on recent accomplishments, awards, or any news you’d like to share with the WIFSFBA community. 


Send your blurbs and any related images to bod-admin@wifsfba.org with Members in the News in the subject line. Submit by June 21st to be included in the next newsletter.

Internship/Volunteer Opportunity with WIFSFBA 


Becoming a WIFSFBA intern or volunteer is a unique and exciting opportunity to be a part of a highly respected organization in the film industry. Come join our wonderfully diverse team!


Position Description:

We offer school credit for those attending a HigherEd institution, AND volunteer opportunities for non-students of all backgrounds and experience levels.  During their internship, applicants will have the opportunity to work and interact with experienced working producers, directors, writers, editors, etc. on projects that expand WIFSBA’s community outreach, and will be invited to attend all of our events.  In return, we ask interns to contribute 5-10 hours a week to WIFSFBA and attend mandatory monthly Zoom team meetings.

We are looking for interns to support our work in one or more of the following areas:

●Events

●Tech Support for Zoom Events

● Graphic design

● Work with Photoshop

● Marketing

● Canva -- assist in photo editing and marketing materials

● Updating website

● Non-profit grant writing

If you are experienced or trained in one or more of the areas listed above, and are interested in expanding your skills professionally, please APPLY by sending the following materials addressed to Julie Rubio, WIFSFBA President, at bod-admin@wifsfba.org

● Resume

● Cover letter -- please include:

-which area(s) above interest you

-your experience/training in that area(s)

-reason(s) for wanting to work with WIFSFBA

-if you are a student OR non-student

-If student: which semester/quarter/summer you are available

-If non-student: when you could begin a 6-month time commitment

We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including but not limited to BIPOC, gender diverse individuals, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, people with disabilities, bilingual individuals.  Reasonable accommodation will be made so that qualified applicants with disabilities may participate in the application process.

We are accepting applications on a rolling basis.

Questions? Please contact bod-admin@wifsfba.org and put INTERNSHIP in the subject line. 

UPCOMING WIFSFBA EVENTS

The Ins and Outs of Film Festivals (Five Mistakes Filmmakers Make) 

Presented by co-authors of "The Complete Filmmaker's Guide to Film Festivals" Rona Edwards & Monika Skerbelis

When: Saturday, Sep 9th, 2023

Time: 11AM-12.30PM PDT

Where: Zoom


Did you know there are more than 5,000+ film festivals around the world? How do you target the right ones? Join RONA EDWARDS  and MONIKA SKERBELIS  for an enlightening look at how you -- writer, director, producer, actor -- can create a festival strategy by learning from mistakes other filmmakers often make.   Here’s what will be discussed in this informative seminar: 

Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn NEW and EXCITING ways to make the most of your next film festival SUBMISSION.

MORE INFO: Women in Film San Francisco Bay Area - EVENTS

TICKETS: General Admission -- $10 - Buy tickets

Free for WIFSFBA & WIFT-US Members - Click here

WIFT-US Networking Night

When: Every second Thursday of the month, free for members of WIFSFBA

Where: Zoom online, link found in WIFT-US mailing list newsletter

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE BAY AREA

OAKLAND 'Scenes/Film in a Day' Challenge

When: Saturday, September 9, 10 am - 6:30 pm PDT

Where:  Oakland Area -- Location given  to registrants via email

“ACTORS, FILMMAKERS, WRITERS ALL LEVELS!!! Come, make, or be in a short film with us! Compete In Film Teams! Everyone Welcome!  Films made on this event will be screened  at a Local Theater,  IMDB Credits will be given and Voted on for Awards --  a chance to win $1,000 towards a new short film.”

MUST REGISTER  IN ADVANCE --- MORE INFO:  Oakland Film in a Day Challenge

Representation Matters Film Festival

When:  September 30th - 6-9 pm                                                                                                                                      

Where: Camino Brewing Co and Beer Garden - 718 S. 1st St., San Jose CA                                                 

Event is FREE

The film program for the Representation Matters Film Festival will feature stories about diversity in the outdoors.

Must Reserve a Spot in ADVANCE --- MORE INFO:  Representation Matters Film Festival

FISHNETS and Film -- A Queer Film Festival

When:  September 16th - 7-8:30 pm                                                                                                                                

Where:  1100 Shasta Ave., San Jose CA                                                                                                  

Admission: $10                                                                                              

If you like queer Performance Art and Queeer Cinema, this is the show for you. This is an  inclusive family-friendly, and fabulous, queer film festival hosted by Drag Queens and local Queer Artists.  It  has been making creative waves all across California with its unique and innovative concept, screening  current LGBTQ+ short films. 

MORE INFO: Fishnets and Film

Portable TV and Film Production: 

Sling Studio Workshop

When:  September 6th &  8th -- 5-8 pm                                                                                                                         

Where: Berkeley Community Media  -- 2134 Martin Luther King Junior Way, Berkeley, CA

General Admission: $120                                          

“The industry’s first portable wireless multi-camera broadcasting platform and video switcher. Use up to 10 sources including iPhone, HD and/or 4K cameras. Live switcher control via laptop or iPad.  This is the solution to the problem of filming on location and having to spend hours syncing footage in order to get your content out to the world!”                                                                                                                                           

MORE INFO: Sling Studio Workshop

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

American Zoetrope Screenplay Competition

Early-bird Submission deadline: July 17, 2023 -- Final Deadline: September 5, 2023

Submission Fee: Early-bird ($40) - General ($50)


"The mission of the American Zoetrope Screenplay Competition is to find and promote new and innovative voices in cinema. The competition considers feature-length film scripts, as well as pilot scripts for television/streaming services. Every script is read closely by a select handful of professional readers, and the American Zoetrope staff and Francis Ford Coppola choose a winner from among ten finalists."


MORE INFO:  American Zoetrope Screenplay Competition | Submit

Script Pipeline TV Writing Competition

Entry deadline: September 15, 2023


"The 16th Script Pipeline TV Writing Competition is searching for extraordinary television writers and original pilots for exposure to production companies, managers, and agencies. The company’s unique process—consisting of long-term writer development, promotion, and circulation of material—gives finalists proper one-on-one guidance to advance their careers."


MORE INFO:  Script Pipeline TV Writing Contest

LA Film Festivals:

LA Asian Film Festival

Festival Dates: January 25-28, 2024

Submission Final Deadline:  October 6th

Submission Fee: $45 and up


“Accepting submissions from Asian directors, writers, majority asian crew, and/or Asian stories of any genre in the following categories: feature, short, short short, animated short, TV pilot, and web series.”


MORE INFO: LA Asian FF | Submit

The Athena List

Submissions: Open from June 1 - September 15, 2023. There is NO SUBMISSION FEE for The Athena List.

When:  The 14th Annual Festival will take place February 29 – March 3, 2024.


“The Athena List is an annual feature-length script competition that selects exceptional scripts featuring women leaders at the heart of the story. As the signature program of the Athena Film Festival’s Creative Development program, The Athena List’s goal is to raise the profile of the winning scripts and writers within the industry, with the purpose of getting these movies made and elevating the writers’ careers to the next level.

The Athena List is a part of The Athena Film Festival at Barnard College. The Athena Film Festival has established itself as the premier festival dedicated to celebrating and elevating women’s leadership. Our festival highlights films showcasing women’s leadership from underexplored perspectives; women leading in all places and spaces who are resisting and refuting preconceived notions of all they can be and do. Through our Creative Development Program, we are bolstering the pipeline of creatives who are telling these stories and fostering a network of in film.

FYI - We have been in contact with the legal department at the WGA and have been assured that submitting your materials would not put you in breach of strike protocols." 


MORE INFO: Athena List 

 GRANTS CORNER

Bend Film BIPOC Film Production Grant

Submission deadline: September 15, 2023

“On-screen representation affects cultural understanding of BIPOC, women, and LGBTQ+ characters. Barriers need to be broken down until equal representation is achieved on-screen and behind the camera.

BendFilm’s Grant will support a BIPOC women artist with $20,000 toward making their short or feature film. The grant supports storytellers who are working to tell creative and complex stories told from a point of view that is unique and authentic.

Filmmakers who have been underrepresented are less likely to have the funding support to produce their first films to jumpstart their careers. This grant breaks down the economic barrier to democratize the art form which in turn will:

This grant is made available by the Braemar Charitable Trust, the Roundhouse Foundations, the Starview Foundation, Infocus Eye Care and Oregon Film.” 

MORE INFO: BIPOC Women Film Production Grant - BENDFILM

New Filmmakers LA - New Narratives

Submission deadline: September 6th, 2023 at 11:59pm 

Award Announcement: October 18th, 2023 at 11:00am 

 “In 2021, NewFilmmakers Los Angeles and Warner Bros. Discovery 150 partnered to launch the inaugural edition of NewNarratives. Now in its third year, the program will continue to identify exciting new global storytellers by accessing NFMLA’s extensive pool of artistic talent. The program advances, funds and amplifies unique new voices whose narratives, stories and characters transcend borders and dismantle convention.”

MORE INFO: https://www.newfilmmakersla.com/newnarratives/

US InProgress Wroclaw

"Organized by the New Horizons Association and running annually since 2011 in the framework of the American Film Festival in Wroclaw, US in Progress is a unique annual film industry event connecting American independent filmmakers and European film professionals and fostering co-production with Poland. The event also presents Polish co-production opportunities and benefits."

MORE INFO: American Film Festival - US In Progress General Info

Voices with Impact

Submission deadline: Sept 17, 2023

“Voices With Impact" is a yearly short film production grant that funds 5 minute films that create transformative conversations around the topic of mental health. Each year VWI awards 10 filmmaking teams $7.5k to make a 5 minute short on specific underrepresented mental health topics. This year we are looking for proposals on the topic of Serious Mental Illness, or Cliques & Echo Chambers.”

MORE INFO: Voices with Impact Grant

SFFILM FilmHouse Residency

Submission deadline: Sept 8, 2023

“SFFILM’s FilmHouse residency program provides Bay Area-based documentary and narrative filmmakers with artistic guidance, office space, a vibrant creative community, and support from established film industry professionals.”

MORE INFO: FilmHouse Residency - SFFILM

South Arts Grants and Fellowships

“Our mission: Advancing Southern vitality through the arts. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, South Arts is a nonprofit regional arts organization empowering artists, organizations, and communities, and increasing access to arts and culture. In partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the State Arts Agencies of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee — with additional funding from other public and private donors such as the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation — South Arts supports artists and organizations through a rich and responsive portfolio of grants, fellowships, and programs.”

MORE INFO: South Arts Grants

Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Grant completion Fund

Submission Deadline:  October 27, 2023


“The Frameline LGBTQ+ Film Grant Completion Fund provides grants up to $5,000 to emerging and established filmmakers. They especially encourage applications by women, people of color, transgender people, intersex people, asexual people, non-binary people, disabled people, and other underrepresented people and communities. Films submitted should represent and reflect LGBTQ+ life in all its complexity and richness.  The fund supports documentary, narrative, experimental, animated, and episodic projects about LGBTQ+ people and their communities.” 


MORE INFO:  Frameline Completion Fund

The Future of Film is Female Film Fund

Applications: Opens at the end of August 2023 


The Future of Film is Female “advances gender parity in the film industry by amplifying all women and non-binary filmmakers through our short film fund, commitment to exhibition, and community building programs. We look at short films directed by women or non-binary filmmakers for two funding cycles a year. The preferred length is no more than 20 minutes -- all genres accepted.”


MORE INFO: Future of Film is Female Fund

Women Make Movies - Production Grant

Submissions are taken on a rolling basis

“WMM offers a production assistance program for female filmmakers actively fundraising or about to begin fundraising.  Filmmakers can only apply if they are not currently fiscally sponsored by another organization.  One of the most important criteria for the Women Make Movies Production Grant is that you must be able to clearly communicate your fundraising or distribution strategies for the film.”

MORE INFO:  WMM | Production Grant

Thanks to Newsletter Contributors:  Julie Rubio, Diane Walsh, Nil Unerdem, Tasha Nesbitt

Newsletter designed by Lina Indeeva and edited by Nil Unerdem  

We're looking for guest editors. Join the newsletter team! bod-admin@wifsfba.org