Guidelines and Eligibility for the Catapult Development Grant:

Please carefully review the following section to determine if the Catapult Development Grant is a good fit for your project before applying.

Eligibility

Applicants (Project Director) must be 18 years or older and cannot be enrolled in an academic institution.
Documentaries must be in development or early production with an intended length of 28 minutes or longer.
Grant funds must specifically be used to create a fundraising piece, which may include writing, shooting and editing once story and characters are in place.
Applicants must own the copyright of their production, and have artistic, budgetary, and editorial control over their project.
Applicants should have previous film or television production experience in a principal role (director, co-director, producer, co-producer) as demonstrated via previous work samples. Applicants who do not meet this criteria should demonstrate how they will be working with experienced filmmakers as key creative personnel.
Catapult does not make grants to individuals. If selected, applicants must be able to accept grants through a 501(c)(3) organization such as a fiscal sponsor. Projects may apply without a fiscal sponsor but must confirm the designated organization in order to receive funding. Learn more in our Frequently Asked Questions»

Artful, compelling storytelling that moves you, with a preference for character-driven narratives over lesson or agenda-heavy projects
Originality of approach, content, and form
Creative and innovative storytelling techniques
Contemporary relevance with a unique perspective, style, and/or tone
Project feasibility with respect to budget, financing, schedule, and scope
Demonstrated ability of the creative team to implement previous projects
Credible access and rapport with the proposed subject(s) of the story, with attention to accountability and ethics
Significant impact of Catapult grant on development stage of the project
Potential of the project to generate public discourse and social engagement

Grant awards range from $5000 to $25,000. If selected, grantees must have a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor to officially accept the award.
Once accepted, Catapult will provide a letter of agreement that clearly outlines use of funds, reporting, and deliverables. Report deadlines are determined by the grantee, based on project goals and timeline.
Grantees must submit two financial reports during the course of the grant period: an interim report, which will accompany a narrative report; and a final financial report to be submitted once the grant is complete.
Upon completion of the award period, grantees must submit the proposed fundraising piece. Grantees agree to return any funds not used for the purpose of the grant.
Grantees will be expected to acknowledge Catapult support with text and/or logo recognition in film credits, publicity, and promotional materials, as well as tickets to the film’s premiere.
Beyond the grant, Catapult serves as an early and engaged champion for our grantees by providing editorial feedback, industry connections, and mentorship based on project needs.