Funder Q&As
Funder FAQ: Playboy's Surprising Mission
Playboy is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, but we're guessing not many people know that the Playboy Foundation funds social change documentaries.
June 28th, 2010 | Maddy Kadish
You'll likely be surprised when you find out exactly what types of films the Playboy Foundation is passionate about making. A hint? Nudity is not a requirement.
Damned in the U.S.A. (1991)
Heart of the Matter (1994)
In the Family (2008)
The Most Dangerous Man in America (2010)
The Times of Harvey Milk (1984)
When Billy Broke His Head…. And Other Tales of Wonder (1999)
What do all these films have in common?
Funder FAQ: Roy W. Dean Film & Video Grants
Carole Dean answers questions about how her nonprofit supports independent filmmakers.
April 24th, 2009
Somewhat different than many filmmaking grants, the Roy W. Dean Film & Video Grants provide goods and services, rather than funding, with the goal of helping filmmakers not only complete their film, but gain connections within the independent filmmaking community. The Independent's Enette Ngoei talks with foundation founder, author, and producer Carole Dean to find out exactly what Roy W. Dean grants have to offer independent filmmakers.
Carole Dean, founder of the the Roy W. Dean Film & Video Grants and From the Heart Productions, talks with The Independent about her foundation.
What are the Roy Dean Film & Video grants?
These grants are designed to support documentary and independent filmmakers by giving them the goods and services to get their films off the ground.
National Center for Outreach
Jason Guerrasio interviews Maria Alvarez Stroud
April 1st, 2004 | Jason GuerrasioPublic television stations have always been dedicated to airing programs that help their communities. But after the programs have aired, how can inspired community members actually take up the cause?
Deutsch/Open City Films:
Jason Guerrasio interviews Joana Vicente and Jason Kliot
March 1st, 2004 | Jason GuerrasioPaul Robeson Fund for Independent Media
Jason Guerrasio interviews Trinh Duong
January 1st, 2004 | Jason GuerrasioWhat is the Paul Robeson Fund for Independent Media?
It is a fund that gives grants to video, film, and radio programs.
How long has it been in existence?
Funder FAQ: Sundance Institute Documentary Program
December 1st, 2003 | Jason GuerrasioWhat is the Sundance Institute Documentary Fund?
It’s a fund to support documentaries in the US and internationally that deal with contemporary human rights issues, social justice, civil liberties, and freedom of expression. It used to be the Soros Documentary Fund.
How long has the fund been with Sundance?
It’s been here for two years.
Sundance Institute Documentary Program
Jason Guerrasio interviews program director Diane Weyermann
December 1st, 2003 | Jason GuerrasioWhat is the Sundance Institute Documentary Fund?
It’s a fund to support documentaries in the US and internationally that deal with contemporary human rights issues, social justice, civil liberties, and freedom of expression. It used to be the Soros Documentary Fund.
The Standby Program
Jason Guerrasio Interviews Maria Venuto
November 1st, 2003 | Jason GuerrasioWhat is Standby?
It’s a nonprofit media arts service organization that has been in existence since 1983. We provide postproduction services to artists and nonprofits, provide technical consultation, and do publications to serve the media arts field.
Why did Standby start?
Funder FAQ The Standby Program
November 1st, 2003 | Jason GuerrasioWhat is Standby?
It’s a nonprofit media arts service organization that has been in existence since 1983. We provide post-production services to artists and nonprofits, provide technical consultation, and do publications to serve the media arts field.
Why did Standby start?
Playing Niche
Funding sources that cater to specific interest and minority groups
November 1st, 2003 | Sean FitzellSecuring funds as an independent producer is often the most difficult and crucial aspect of successfully completing your vision. Money from the government, non-profits, corporations, private foundations, and individuals is out there for film and video projects. But most funding sources have a particular interest and seek projects closely aligned with that interest.
We've had great success with The Independent's Guide to Film Distributors, which features the acquisition details of nearly 200 distribution companies. But times are changing FAST so we're hard at work on a 2nd edition due out later this year. Our current edition is available at 
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