Deadline: September 29, 2025
Are you a documentary or non-fiction filmmaker looking to take your project to the next level? The BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025 is now open for applications. This 9-month intensive programme is designed to support filmmakers who are pushing the boundaries of storytelling through bold cinematic language and innovative impact strategies.
This prestigious fellowship offers funding, mentorship, industry access, and opportunities to connect with peers, making it one of the most valuable opportunities for filmmakers ready to amplify their voices and projects.
About the BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025
The BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025 is a collaborative and workshop-style programme that focuses on developing documentary and non-fiction film projects. Fellows will participate in immersive workshops, peer mentorship, and career development sessions covering areas such as fundraising, distribution, and outreach.
The fellowship seeks filmmakers whose work addresses urgent and relevant contemporary issues and who are committed to using storytelling as a tool for social change.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows will gain access to a wide range of benefits that provide both financial and professional support:
- Up to USD $10,000 distributed throughout the fellowship period.
- Travel per-diems to cover related expenses.
- Two fully funded in-person convenings in San Francisco, including travel costs, with immersive workshops and feedback sessions from industry professionals.
- One all-access pass to attend a film festival or industry conference, with flights and accommodation covered.
- Regular 1–3 hour workshops and check-ins throughout the year.
- Networking and peer support, including building long-term professional relationships.
- Access to BAVC MediaMaker Connect Mentoring, offering 5 hours of one-on-one mentorship, available to fellows, alumni, and even applicants not selected.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Role: You must be the director and creative lead of the project. Only one person per team may apply. In the case of co-directors, one must be chosen to apply.
- Project Type: Feature-length non-fiction or documentary film projects are eligible. Hybrid documentaries are accepted. Shorts, series, and podcasts are not eligible. Projects must be non-commercial and not created primarily to sell products, services, or organisations.
- Project Stage: Your project must already be in production or post-production but not so far along that a fine cut is expected before the end of the fellowship year.
- Residency Requirement: Applicants must primarily reside in the United States. While citizenship is not required, applicants must be based in the U.S. for most of the fellowship period.
Why Apply for the BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025?
This fellowship is an excellent opportunity for filmmakers who:
- Want funding and travel support for their documentary projects.
- Need access to mentorship and industry networks to accelerate their filmmaking career.
- Are eager to receive feedback at a stage where it can influence the final outcome of their project.
- Value collaborative peer learning and long-term professional relationships.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025 is:
📅 September 29, 2025
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their submissions early to ensure eligibility and competitiveness.
Conclusion
The BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025 is a unique opportunity for U.S.-based documentary and non-fiction filmmakers to access funding, mentorship, and industry networks over a 9-month period. If your project is at the right stage and you’re ready to grow as both a filmmaker and creative leader, this fellowship could be the perfect next step.
👉 Click here to apply for the BAVC MediaMaker Fellowship 2025
👉 Read more about the programme here
💡 Need help with your fellowship proposal? Contact us for proposal drafting, refining and review to increase your chances of success.
