Grants & Access
Access Programs & Artist Opportunities at Northwest Film Forum
Northwest Film Forum offers its resources free of charge through a variety of programs to assist local filmmakers in the creation of their artistic productions. There are two categories of artist support: equipment access and production resources.
Programs are project-based; a project proposal and work sample are required for consideration.
Criteria for acceptance into a Northwest Film Forum artist access program are artistic merit, originality, and compatibility with Northwest Film Forum's mission. Northwest Film Forum also considers the artist's ability to see the project to completion and the project's contribution to the local film community. Selection is largely based on the strength of the artist's submitted work sample. Projects that receive support will remain active for one year from the time of acceptance. If the project continues beyond one year, filmmakers may reapply for subsequent years of activity.
Application guidelines can be picked up at the office or requested by email.
Applying for a grant
Proposals must include six distinct pages, presented in the order listed below. Proposals must include a work sample.
Mandatory Attachments
Page 1. Cover Letter. Include all contact information, identify the production and principal personnel. State why the project should be considered for the grant program.
Page 2. Synopsis. Summarize the project, including relevant information on the content and form of the project.
Page 3. Project Description. Describe the technical production of the project, identify key production personnel and any hurdles to production. Describe the format in which the project will be produced and post-produced.
Page 4. Project Budget. Include the top sheet of your budget, itemized by area of expense. Include in-kind and deferred expenses and list sources of income. A complete budget must be available upon request.
Page 5. Biographies. Provide short biographical information about the key personnel in the project.
Page 6. Artistic Work Sample. Include a work sample description, with an explanation of the applicant's role in the production.
* Work samples may be a tape, video, script, photograph, painting, drawing, trailer or any material that best represents the production. Work samples that represent the director or cinematographer's ability are recommended.
Recommended Attachments
Page 7. Project Timeline. Include a start-to-finish timeline covering all phases of the project.
Page 8. Fundraising Plan. Include fundraising strategies. Identify actual or potential donations and grants by foundation, company or individual.
Page 9+. Optional Attachments. Attach reviews, letters of support, etc.