California Documentary Project Grants
In California on October 14, 2026
Supporting documentaries that deepen our understanding of California
The California Documentary Project (CDP) supports nonfiction film, audio, and digital media projects that explore the histories, cultures, ideas, and experiences that shape California. Through a humanities-based approach, CDP supports storytellers in bringing California’s diverse experiences, forms of knowledge, communities, and histories to audiences across the state and beyond.
Application Opens: Monday, September 14, 2026
Letter of Intent Deadline: Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 5 PM PT
Funding Opportunities
CDP funding is available in two categories, supporting projects at different stages of development.
Research & Development Grants
Up to $15,000
Research & Development grants support documentary media projects in their earliest stages, helping strengthen their humanities content and approach as they move toward production.
Best for: Projects in the research, development, and early planning stages.
Production Grants
Up to $50,000
Production grants support documentary media projects in production, helping strengthen their humanities content and approach as they advance towards completion.
Best for: Projects that have moved beyond research and development and are active in production.