AXS Film Fund Grant

The AXS Film Fund, backed by the Bertha Foundation, provides vital grants of up to $10,000 to independent documentary filmmakers and non-fiction creators with disabilities. Aimed at amplifying diverse voices, especially from underserved communities, the fund supports projects in various production stages. With a commitment to social justice and representation, it encourages applicants regardless of background, fostering a more inclusive media landscape. This initiative reflects the urgent need for diverse narratives in filmmaking.

Bertha Foundation
Bertha Foundation fights for a more just world.
History and Inspiration
AXS Film Fund was founded to support documentary filmmakers and non-fiction new media creators living with disabilities from a range of backgrounds, particularly those from historically underserved communities. The events of 2020 highlighted the need for change as society faced an increase in violence, particularly against communities of color, a divided nation, and a global pandemic. It became clear that elevating diverse voices in media was more important than ever.
Working alongside supporters throughout the industry, the fund was established to provide resources and funding to amplify the voices of filmmakers who often face barriers in the industry.
While this program is intended for creators in documentary filmmaking or nonfiction new media who identify as living with a disability, particularly those from underserved communities, we welcome applications from all creators regardless of background. Each year we award up to five creators with grants of up to $10,000 each to assist them in completing their projects in any stage of production.
Types of Projects
We fund:

• Feature length documentary films (45+ minute runtime)
• Nonfiction new media projects, with a film/video component

Eligibility

Eligibility of ApplicantsApplicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for our grant:
Applicants cannot be enrolled in a full-time degree granting program.Applicants should be 18 years of age or older to apply.Applicants should be individuals, however they may have a fiscal sponsor.Projects are encouraged to be led by individuals who identify as living with a disability, particularly those from underserved communities. However, all applicants are welcome to apply.
Eligibility of ProjectsProjects must meet the following criteria to be eligible for our grant:
Projects should be a documentary film or nonfiction new media project.Documentary projects should be feature length films (experimental nonfiction will be accepted)The project is in any stage of production (pre-production, production, post production, distribution).Projects in languages other than English should have English subtitles.

Ineligibility

Ineligible ProjectsThe following projects are ineligible for funding and will NOT be considered:
The applicant and project do not meet the above listed eligibility requirements.Fiction Projects. Narrative fiction films based on a true story are also not eligible.Projects in which applicants are hired, employed, or commissioned by another entity.Projects that meet our criteria, but have an incomplete application and/or are missing supporting materials. AXS Film Fund is not responsible for contacting you about incomplete applications.Projects submitted after the submission deadline.