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Fri
Jul 31
2026
If you're an independent filmmaker looking for North Carolina film grants or film funding to help bring your next project to life, applications are now open for the 2026 Filmed in NC Fund.
Administered by Cucalorus Film Foundation, the Filmed in NC Fund provides financial support to independent filmmakers in North Carolina producing narrative, documentary, and experimental films. Applications are open now through Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026.
The Filmed in NC Fund awards grants ranging from $500 to $3,000 to help filmmakers move projects forward at every stage of production. Whether you're developing a new idea, filming your project, or completing post-production, this film funding opportunity is designed to support original, community-driven storytelling.
The Filmed in NC Fund is open to permanent North Carolina residents, as well as full-time students enrolled at North Carolina colleges and universities who live in the state year-round. Eligible projects include narrative, documentary, and experimental films with total budgets under $1.5 million.
Since its inception, the program has helped strengthen North Carolina's independent film community by investing in filmmakers whose work reflects diverse perspectives and contributes to the state's growing creative economy.
The Filmed in NC Fund is made possible through a partnership between the NC Film Office and Cucalorus Film Foundation, with additional support from Southern Documentary Fund and Artless Media in conjunction with The Magnifying Glass.
The grant program is designed to support both emerging and established filmmakers with a track record of creating original work that has meaningful community impact. Projects at every stage of production are encouraged to apply.
While the program prioritizes support for women filmmakers, filmmakers of color, and LGBTQ+ identifying filmmakers, all eligible North Carolina independent filmmakers are encouraged to submit an application.
"North Carolina is home to an incredible community of independent filmmakers whose stories deserve to be seen," said Dan Brawley, executive director of Cucalorus Film Foundation. "The Filmed in NC Fund helps provide critical early support that can move a project forward while strengthening our state's creative economy and celebrating the voices that make North Carolina filmmaking so unique."
If you've been searching for North Carolina film funding, film grants for independent filmmakers, or resources to help produce your next project, the Filmed in NC Fund is an excellent opportunity to receive financial support while joining a network of filmmakers shaping the future of North Carolina cinema.
Learn more about eligibility requirements and submit your application at www.cucalorus.org/festivals/filmed-in-nc before the Sept. 30 deadline.
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