California Documentary Project Grants 2026-2027

The California Documentary Project Grants support documentary media projects (film, audio, and digital media) that explore California’s histories, cultures, ideas, and experiences. There are two funding paths: Research & Development grants for early-stage projects and Production grants for projects in production, both requiring a minimum 1:1 match from non-federal sources. Grants are available to registered nonprofit organizations and individuals working with an eligible nonprofit fiscal sponsor or public agency, with California residency required for the project director and applicant organization.

Funding for project development or production, plus potential validation and distribution support through California Humanities networks.

Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and individuals working with an eligible nonprofit fiscal sponsor or a public agency; California residency for the project director and the applicant organization is required; personnel are preferred to be California-based.

Submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) through the California Humanities grant portal, followed by an indicated application path for either Research & Development or Production grants.