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.
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:
Support the career of an underrepresented artist.
Increase the production of films that accurately portray underrepresented communities.
Lead audiences to a better understanding of themselves (if underrepresented) or to the life experience of someone unlike themselves.
This grant is supported in part by Oregon Film and the Creative Opportunity Program.
Find out more here.
GRANT APPLICATION PROCESS:
-Application due: Friday September 27
-BendFilm to notify finalists by late November
-Live pitch to a panel of judges before the end of 2024. (exact pitch date TBD)