The Documentary Emergency Fund

The purpose of the Documentary Emergency Fund (DEF) is to assist documentary filmmakers.

This fund will be open for submissions January 1st, 2023. Applications will be accepted beginning on that date.

Who Will Be Able to Apply to the Documentary Emergency fund?

A documentary producer or director who has created at least one short documentary or full length 60-minute documentary feature film that has been released and distributed. By broadcasting rules, a short is under 40 minutes and everything over 40 minutes is considered a feature. Distribution can include any of these: theatrical screenings, sale to online streamers and/or significant community screenings. It can also include VOD placement on either Amazon or other streamers.

Applicants must also be currently involved in the field of documentary filmmaking. They must show they are now engaged in the research, development, pre-production, production, or post-production of a documentary film.

Students who are currently enrolled are not eligible. Board members or employees of From the Heart Productions and their relatives are not eligible for the fund.

Funding is available to domestic (U.S.) filmmakers only. Filmmakers need not be US citizens, but they must be residents who can legally work in the US.

Help Support the Documentary Emergency Fund

Make a tax deductible donation today. Keep a documentary filmmaker on track to complete their film.

Personal and Work Guidelines for Application:

Applicants will need to attest to the following:

I am a practicing documentary filmmaker, and I am able to demonstrate a sustained commitment to my work, career, and a public audience.
I am 18 years of age or older.
I can provide a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) after I’ve been notified of my selection.
I have been living and working in the U.S. for the last two years.
I have not previously been awarded a grant from this fund.

Applicants will also be asked to provide these links if available:

IMDB page, film review, or direct link to project that shows professional work in the field.
Website
Social media presence

Financial Needs Guidelines for Application

Applicants must provide information about the “financial emergencies” they are facing.

Filmmakers applying will need to specify what are their “financial emergencies” that are occurring during the next four weeks from the time of their application.

Documentary Emergency Fund grants will run up to $500.00. You can apply more than once but only win once.

Examples of “financial emergencies” include but are not limited to:

Food (unable to buy groceries).
Car (unable to make car payment).
Electricity, phone, or internet may be turned off.
To keep other things working that contribute to the advancement of the documentary.
You have been invited to a film festivals and need air fare.
You want to shoot the “sweet shot” for your film and need help.

In 100-400 words, applicants will be requested to describe the financial emergencies they are facing. They will need to identify why they urgently need support within the next four weeks.

Applicants must itemize their needs and the amount can be up to $500.00.

Upon Acceptance

Only the winner will be notified via email that you have won and that you will be receiving funding. Funds will be dispersed via check, so applicants must provide their current mailing address. To issue the funds, we will need a W-9 tax form and an invoice.

Need More Information?

Please visit the FAQ. You can also email info@FromTheHeartProductions.com.

Google Reviews

George Max *****

If you are a Screenwriter, Film or Documentary this is the one place that offers help through Grant's and programs. If you want to learn about Film Grants and much more, we would tell you to contact Carole Dean as she does have fantastic info on everything Film and Movie.

Jim Harrison *****

Fiscal film grants, Documentary film grants and film funding in made possible by great non profits like From the Heart Productions Inc. We really admire Carole Dean. She is such a classy, stylish and sophisticated lady. Carole Dean has honored her family and the entire movie industry by dedicating a big part of her life to 26 years of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant. From the Heart is a nonprofit foundation that seeks films that are unique and make a contribution to society. She offers so many avenues to the Film and Movie industry by opening doors through contacts, grants and a life time of experience in the industry. She host a pod cast and radio talk show and gives classes to startup Film, documentary and full feature Screenwriters, Actors, Directors, Producers and basic funding through grants to inexperienced and experienced film makers. Enough can not be said about her efforts in helping artist create documentary, feature, short films, and web series shows. Carole Dean is a true 5 Star Diamond.

Vennie Guerrera *****

Documentary film grants come from From the Heart Productions. This dedicated film grant foundation has spent many years teaching young film students the art of film funding, grant money and so much more. No one can say enough about such a dedicated person like Carole Dean.

Luis Remesar *****

As filmmakers, working with From The Heart Productions has been a real godsend. They've been hands-on in helping us see our feature-length documentary to fruition, providing important production resources, grant opportunities and fundraising mentorship. Carole Dean, the Founder and CEO of From The Heart Productions is a one-of-a-kind champion of filmmakers. Her wisdom, experience and generosity of spirit has been a gift for our production team to collaborate with. Luis Remesar & Beth Dolan Director/Producer of "Stranger At Home"

Bre Pryse *****

I've known Carole Dean and From The Heart for over 10 years. Carol works tirelessly for her filmmakers. She is an extraordinary woman with experience in the film industry in many different areas. In addition to providing fiscal sponsorship, she also teaches classes, provides a grant and consults on projects and writes. From The Heart Productions should be the first choice when looking for fiscal sponsorship and film guidance.

Margarita Sweet *****

An over 10 year relationship of wonderful films and some amazing filmmakers. The attention and dedication that's put into the grants process is considerable for a small organization. From The Heart always puts the filmmaker first

Basil M *****

From the heart productions is a truly unique heartfelt non profit organization that cares and nourishes the art of filmmaking.

Core Issue Productions *****

Carole Dean has been a mentor, advisor, and all-around cheerleader for my film "The Weight of Honor"! We could not have done our documentary without From The Heart and the Roy W. Dean Grant!