Reach Film Fellowship

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the Reach Film Fellowship define “emerging filmmaker”?

A: We are seeking applicants who have completed at least one short film and have had that film selected to screen at a reputable film festival. This does not mean a filmmaker who has completed multiple, accomplished short films is ineligible. Nor is a filmmaker who has made his or her first low or micro budget feature film. It is important to note, however, that the Fellowship is designed as a springboard to assist with creative and professional development in a welcoming environment, and ideally an applicant should be able to explain how the resources offered through the Fellowship would assist the applicant in covering new ground with his or her work.

Q: If I currently live outside of the New York City area, or outside of the United States, will you accept my application?

A: Yes, we do accept applications from filmmakers outside of New York, as long as the applicant can demonstrate the ability to relocate to the New York City area for the duration of the fellowship. The Reach Film Fellowship cannot provide a housing or living stipend.

Q: I am not a US Citizen or permanent resident, but I have a key team member who is. Can we still apply?

A: The reason we require applicants to be US Citizens or permanent residents is that we must make grants to our filmmakers through a US based fiscal sponsor. If a member of your key team has citizenship or residency, he or she may be designated as the recipient of the grant funds and you may apply.

Q: Do I need to have a fiscal sponsor in place in order to apply for The Reach Film Fellowship?

A: No, you do not need a fiscal sponsor in place for The Reach Film Fellowship. If you already happen to have a fiscal sponsor for your project that is great, but we do not give any special consideration to applicants who secure a fiscal sponsor in advance of applying.