On July 31, 2025, application submissions will close by 11:59pm ET. Applications will first be reviewed by our internal staff to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements. Applications will then move onto a review by an external committee of expert panelists.
The AXS Film Fund
While this program is intended for creators in documentary filmmaking or nonfiction new media who identify as living with a disability, particularly those from underserved communities, we welcome applications from all creators regardless of background. Each year we award up to five creators with grants of up to $10,000 each to assist them in completing their projects in any stage of production.
Types of Projects
We fund:
- Feature length documentary films (45+ minute runtime)
- Nonfiction new media projects, with a film/video component
Eligibility of Applicants
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for our 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.
Letters of Inquiry are not required.
Applications should be submitted through our online portal.
Note to Applicants: If you need assistance or an alternative method of submitting your
application, please contact filmfund@axslab.org
On July 31, 2025, application submissions will close by 11:59pm ET. Applications will first be reviewed by our internal staff to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements. Applications will then move onto a review by an external committee of expert panelists.
All applicants will be notified of the results of the selection process.
AXS Film Fund – How to Apply
AXS Film Fund – What We Fund
- June 2, 2025 - Portal for submissions opens
- July 31, 2025 - Portal for submissions closes by 11:59pm Eastern Time
- January 2026 - Notifications to all applicants begin.
Application Assistance Stipend
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 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.
- 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.
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