The WAVE Grant is devoted to helping emerging female and non-binary filmmakers of color tell their own “great f**king story.” Each year, we select five recipients to receive a $5,000 seed grant for the production of their short film. Recipients will also receive mentorship from our award-winning team with development, production, and distribution strategies.

Applications for the WAVE Grant are now closed.

    • Recipients will receive a $5,000 seed grant for the production of their short film.

    • Recipients will receive a mentorship program. The Wavelength team will assist with development, production, and distribution strategies.

    • Wavelength’s WAVE Grant is for a short narrative film of approximately 10 minutes. Shorts already in production or post-production will not be considered.

    • Production of the short must be completed within 2024. Production cannot begin before Feb. 2024.

    • This project must be the applicant’s directorial debut. Student films do not count as prior work. Applicants may have prior experience in film industry apart from directorial role.

    • Applicants must own the copyright of their production and have budgetary and editorial control.

    • Applicants must identify as a member of the BIPOC community and identify as woman or non-binary.

    • Applicants must be based in the United States and will be required to provide proof of residency.

    • Student films, feature films, series and engagement/outreach campaigns will not be considered. Documentary concepts or films in need of finishing funds will not be considered.

    • Treatment (one-page max) – include a brief outline of the story and tone

    • Script (optional) – a script is not required but preferred if you have it.

    • Budget & Schedule – work-in-progress budget at development stage only and your production schedule. (A note on film financing: Wavelength partners with Seed & Spark as a platform tool for grantees to utilize. If the budget exceeds $5,000, must include information on how you plan to raise the additional funding.)

    • Resume – include a PDF of your CV. A link to your personal portfolio is also welcome.

    • Video pitch (3 minutes max) – 1-3 minute video introducing yourself and the project (private Vimeo or YouTube link is preferred)

    • Signed release form – we will not be able to review your application without this release.

    • If currently enrolled in university, must be graduating in or by 2024.

    • Applications open: October 1, 2023

    • Applications close: December 1, 2023 at 11:59pm PT

    • Interviews with finalists: January 2024

    • All applicants will be notified by January 31, 2024 of the status of their submission

    • WAVE Grant program begins: February 2024

All applicants will receive the opportunity to participate in a free 5-part workshop series from Seed&Spark.

Questions? Please contact us at wavegrant@wavelengthproductions.com