Charlotte Black Film Festival: Celebrating 15 Years of Excellence in Supporting Filmmakers.

The Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF) is a premier event showcasing the creativity and talent of Black filmmakers and storytellers. Since its inception in 2010, CBFF has become a cultural cornerstone in Charlotte-Mecklenburg County celebrating diverse narratives, innovative storytelling, and the power of film to inspire change.

Now in its 15th year, CBFF continues to uplift emerging and established filmmakers through engaging panel discussions, workshops, networking opportunities, and screenings of independent films from around the globe. The festival has featured prominent guests, including actors Darrin Henson and Keith David, and Tyler Perry Casting Director Rhavynn Drummer.

This milestone year marks the launch of the CBFF Micro Film Grant Program, with support from the city of Charlotte this further solidifying the festival's commitment to empowering filmmakers. By providing funding and support, CBFF aims to inspire the creation of compelling projects that reflect the richness of Black and Latino culture and creativity.

Charlotte Black Film Festival Micro Film Grant

The Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF) is excited to announce the Micro Film Grant to support African and Latino emerging and established filmmakers in creating short films, animations, or a web series episode that highlight their unique voices and storytelling talents. Grants will range from $500 to $5,000

Eligibility Requirements:

Eligibility:

Open to African and Latino filmmakers based in Charlotte, NC

Applicants must reside in the City of Charlotte-Mecklenburg County, Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, or driver’s license) is required.Grant Overview

Award Amount: $500 - $5,000 per project

Number of Grants: Up to 12-15 awards

Production Location:

All filming and production must take place within the City of Charlotte/Mecklenburg County.

Timeline:

Information Session:

Monday, January 27, 2025 (6:30 PM EST)

Applications Open:

Thursday, January 28, 2025 (8:00 AM EST)

Applications Due:

Monday, February 23, 2025 (11:59pm)

Grant Award Notifications:

Monday March 3, 2025

Production Review/Photos

March 8, 2025

Project Update

April 21, 2025

Final Projects Due:

Sunday May 11, 2025

Project Screenings:

The 15 anual Charlotte Black Film Festival will happen June 5 Through 8, 2025, at the Ayrsley Grand Cinema

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Approved Uses for Grant Funds:

Grant funds must be used to directly support the production and completion of the project and will be written to applicant

Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:

-Equipment Rentals: Cameras, lighting, sound, and other technical gear.

-Production Costs: Set design, props, and location fees.

-Talent and Crew: Payments for actors, directors, producers, and other key personnel.

-Post-Production: Editing, color grading, sound design, and animation.

-Permits and Insurance: Securing required permits or production insurance.Marketing

-Materials: Posters, trailers, and social media promotions for the final project.

-Music and Licensing: Fees for original scores or licensed music.

-Miscellaneous Expenses: Transportation, meals for cast and crew, and administrative costs directly related to production.

Submission Guidelines:

Applicants will be required to provide:

-A completed application form.

-Proof of residency in Charlotte, NC.

-A project proposal, including:Synopsis (1-2 paragraphs).

-Budget breakdown detailing how grant funds will be used.

-Timeline for project completion.

-Work samples (if applicable) or a portfolio showcasing prior work.

Premiere at CBFF

All funded projects will debut at the Charlotte Black Film Festival, taking place June 5–8, 2025.

Filmmakers will have the opportunity to showcase their work to an engaged audience, including industry professionals, fellow creators, and film enthusiasts.

Application Guidelines:

Applicants must submit the following:

Contact Information

Full Name

Email

Address

Phone Number

Address (proof of residency may be required)

Project Information

Project Title

Genre (Narrative, Documentary, Experimental, etc.)

Logline (1-2 sentences summarizing the project)

Synopsis (150 words)Project Timeline (key milestones, including start and completion dates)

Artistic Statement (300 words) Describe your vision for the project, its themes, and why it is important to you as a filmmaker.

Highlight how this project reflects the African or Latino experience.

Director’s Bio (150 words)Include your background, filmmaking experience, and notable achievements.

Budget

Provide a detailed budget breakdown, including how the grant funds will be allocated (e.g., equipment, cast, crew, locations, post-production).

Work Samples

Submit up to two links to previous work (optional but encouraged). Include a password if required.

Diversity and Impact Statement

(200 words)Explain how your project will contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of Charlotte’s film community and how it may impact local audiences.

Selection Criteria Applications will be evaluated based on the following

Originality and creativity of the project concept.

Feasibility of the project within the proposed timeline and budget.

Potential impact of the project on the filmmaker’s career and the local film community.

Alignment with the grant’s mission to amplify African and Latino voices.

Budget alignment with the project 

Grant recipients must

-Submit a mid-project progress report.Attend a CBFF-hosted event to present the completed film.

-Acknowledge the Charlotte Black Film Festival and the City of Charlotte in the film’s credits ( Marketing instructions will be sent to awardees)

-Funds must be used solely for the production of the approved project.

How to Apply:

For questions or more information, contact: [email protected]