Deadline: 24-July-23

The Sandbox Fund offers grants, engagement events, and other opportunities for independent artists seeking to explore the intrinsic link between science and culture through innovative storytelling.

Grants are offered to independent artists who are working at the intersection of science and nonfiction storytelling. The partnership identifies and supports nonfiction projects that inspire a deeper interest in science, especially among those who don’t think of themselves as science enthusiasts.

The program is administered by the Sundance Institute Documentary Fund, in collaboration with Sandbox Films.

Funding Information

• The fund offers support to projects at all stages of development, production, and post-production. Average grant sizes are as follows:
  • Development (up to $25,000)
  • Production (up to $50,000)
  • Post-Production (up to $50,000)

Eligibility Criteria

• Independent filmmakers making cinematic nonfiction films from anywhere in the world are welcome to submit project proposals. Films may be in any language with English subtitles. First-time filmmakers are eligible. Prior funding, fiscal sponsorship, or American producers are not required.

Creative Considerations

• Selection criteria for the Sandbox Fund will emphasize creative narrative techniques and projects that highlight diversity in science, specifically those that feature characters, topics, or disciplines that broaden and redefine what it means to be a scientist or to do science.

Details: Decisions typically take 4-6 months.

For more information, visit Sandbox Fund.