Charlotte Black Film Festival Micro Film Grant

The Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF) is excited to announce the Micro Film Grant to support 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 $4,000

and are designed to empower local African American creators to bring their projects to life.

Eligibility Requirements

Residency:

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

Production Location: All filming and production must take place within the City of Charlotte or Mecklenburg County.

Timeline:

Applications Open: Thursday, January 23, 2025 (6:00 PM EST)

Information Session: Monday, January 27, 2025 (6:00 PM EST)

Applications Due: Monday, February 17, 2025 (11:59pm)

Grant Award Notifications: Monday March 3, 2025

Final Projects Due: Sunday May 11, 2025

Premiere Screenings: June 6 and 7, 2025, at the Ayrsley Grand Cinema

Zoom Information Sessions

Learn more about the grant, application process, and expectations by attending our

Zoom information sessions: Monday January 27, 2025, at 6:30 PM

Grant Portal Access

The application portal will open on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 3:00 PM

. Links to the portal will be provided during the information sessions and on the CBFF website.

Approved Uses for Grant Funds

Grant funds must be used to directly support the production and completion of the project.

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.

For more information, visit our website or attend one of the Zoom sessions. Let’s make Charlotte’s stories come alive on screen!