ABOUT

AXS Film Fund provides funding to documentary filmmakers and nonfiction new media creators with a focus on those of color living with disabilities. Each year we aim to support 3-5 creators. Awards are up to $10,000, depending on project need. The deadline for the 2026 open call is July 31st at 11:59pm ET.

AXS Film Fund is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

AXS Film Fund was supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts

AXS FILM FUND APPLICATION QUESTIONS

AXS Film Fund utilizes the Nonfiction Core Application led by the IDA and the Sundance Institute.

To preview the application questions as a PDF click here

To preview the application questions as a WORD DOC click here

ACCESSIBILITY

We understand that applying through Survey Monkey may not be an accessible method for all applicants. If you require assistance applying, or an alternative method, please contact us at filmfund@axslab.org. We ask that all requests for assistance are submitted no later than July 24th, 2026 to allow our team time to assist.

Additionally, in an effort to make our application process more accessible, we are once again offering an Application Assistance Stipend for 2026. This stipend would allow applicants to hire an application assistant to help complete their AXS Film Fund application. Please note the following important details:

• Limited Funds: The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis. If funds run out, we will still help you with alternative methods of applying. Please do not send your request before the application opens on June 1st. 

• Pre-Approval Required: Applicants who wish to utilize this stipend to hire an application assistant must submit their assistance request to AXS Film Fund before starting their application to confirm that funds are still available. Please email requests to: filmfund@axslab.org

• The request should include:
  Applicant’s name
  Title of project you’re applying with
  Amount of stipend requested (up to $500)
  Assistant’s name and contact information (cannot be same as applicant(s))

• No Guarantee: The Assistance Stipend is not guaranteed if the request is not submitted in advance of applying. Nor is it guaranteed that you will receive the stipend if funds have run out.

More details can be found on our How To Apply Page.