BFF is excited to host its second annual Narrative Short Grant Program, which provides specific funding to narrative short films made by local filmmakers. We see a growing need for funding of short fiction film projects in the region and we are happy to offer this support moving forward. Berkeley FILM Foundation will provide grants in pre-production, production, post-production and distribution for narrative short film projects. 

The Berkeley FILM Foundation is interested in short films that use creative, thoughtful and innovative methods to tell a story with a strong theme of social or environmental justice. The review committee will be judging films based on originality, imagination, and technical skill.

Beyond the issues addressed in the film and the artistic approach, we are wondering: Is this a film that will gain a wide audience both within and outside of serious film viewers? Does the filmmaking team display a level of professionalism that will enable the film to be completed? These are some examples of things that you are encouraged to address in the application.

Program Timeline:
Applications open: July 21, 2025
Deadline to submit: Monday August 18, 2025 at 11:59pm
Finalists notified: by December 1, 2025
Recipients announced: December 10, 2025