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, 2025 to allow our team time to assist.

Additionally, in an effort to make our application process more accessible, we are piloting an Application Assistance Stipend for 2025. This stipend would allow applicants to hire an application assistant to help complete their AXS Film Fund application. Please visit our website for important information about this new initiative and how to secure one. Please note: these stipends are not guaranteed and due to limited funding, available on a first come, first serve basis.

AXS FILM FUND APPLICATION CHECKLIST

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

To preview the application checklist as a PDF click here

To preview the application checklist as a WORD DOC click here

WHAT WE FUND

This program is intended for creators of color in documentary filmmaking or nonfiction new media who identify as living with a disability, however we welcome all to apply. We will fund:

• Feature length documentary films (a run time of 45 minutes or longer)

• Nonfiction new media projects that include a film/video component.

We seek to bring visibility to a diverse body of creators covering a broad range of topics. We aim to support 3-5 artists in this round.

APPLICANT ELIGIBILITY

Applicants Must meet the following criteria to be eligible for a grant:

• Applicants cannot be enrolled in a full-time degree granting program.

• Applicants should be 18 years of age or older to apply.

• Applicants should be individuals, however they may have a fiscal sponsor.

• Projects are encouraged to be led by individuals who identify as living with a disability, particularly those from underserved communities. However, all applicants are welcome to apply.

PROJECT ELIGIBILITY

Projects must meet the following criteria to be eligible for our grant:

• Projects should be a documentary film or nonfiction new media project.

• Documentary projects should be feature length films (experimental nonfiction will be accepted)

• The project can be in any stage of production (pre-production, production, post production, distribution).

• Projects in languages other than English should have English subtitles.

INELIGIBLE PROJECTS

The following projects are ineligible for funding and will NOT be considered:

• The applicant and project do not meet the above listed eligibility requirements.

• Fiction Projects. Narrative fiction films based on a true story are also not eligible.

• Projects in which applicants are hired, employed, or commissioned by another entity. 

• Projects that meet our criteria, but have an incomplete application and/or are missing supporting materials. AXS Film Fund is not responsible for contacting you about incomplete applications.

• Projects submitted after the submission deadline.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Projects will be evaluated based upon the following:

• The strength of the proposal and artistic approach.

• The feasibility of the proposed project.

• The ethics and accountability of the project.

• A completed application and all requested materials.

• A fulfillment of above eligibility requirements.

Conflict of Interest Declaration:

To be fair to all applicants, AXS Film Fund will not accept applications from current employees, board members, and their relatives. Former employees, board members, and their relatives will become eligible to apply to the fund three years after they leave AXS Lab. 

Have any questions? Visit our What we Fund or FAQ pages, or email us at filmfund@axslab.org