---
title: Proof of Concept Short Film Grant
description: >-
  $8,000 grant for independent Black filmmakers developing a nature-themed short
  film script as proof of concept for a feature film.
url: 'https://www.artsume.com/programs/994a78a2-f2ce-488e-8cef-7f84f179a073'
type: program
status: closed
createdAt: '2026-05-28'
updatedAt: '2026-09-30'
programType: Grant
organization: Black Film Space
organizationUrl: 'https://www.artsume.com/o/black-film-space'
deadline: '2026-05-31'
location: 'Indianapolis, IN, United States'
isOnline: false
compensationRange: >-
  $8,000 grant plus option to shoot at a private estate in Jamaica (provided by
  cliveRd.)
disciplines:
  - film
  - screenwriting
---

# Proof of Concept Short Film Grant

**Hosted by:** Black Film Space

**Type:** Grant | **Location:** Indianapolis, IN, United States | **Deadline:** May 31, 2026

## About This Program

> "Nature in film; proof of concept for feature film by independent Black filmmakers"

Black Film Space is collaborating again with cliveRd. to support and fund projects made by independent Black filmmakers. Our Proof of Concept Short Film Grant is seeking one short film script under 20 minutes/pages that aims to serve as a teaser/preview for a feature film with narratives that feature nature. In order to be a competitive applicant your film must include a nature element. This can include, but is not limited to: Nature as a setting, Nature as a character, Nature as a supporter and/or obstacle for the characters in your project, Nature as a theme. The grant total will be $8,000, in addition, the winner will have the option to shoot at a private estate in Jamaica—an exclusive, complimentary location provided by cliveRd. The location can be used to tell the stories of multiple peoples not just of Jamaica. The project will be selected based on the filmmaker's ability to present a strong script that shows great promise as a proof of concept for a feature film. We will also consider other factors such as the merit of previous work, and financial need.

## Eligibility & Requirements

- **Geographic Eligibility:** International
- **Disciplines:** film, screenwriting
- **Note:** Open to independent Black filmmakers. Script must be under 20 minutes/pages and serve as a proof of concept for a feature film. Must include a nature element (as setting, character, supporter/obstacle for characters, or theme).

### Additional Requirements

Short film script under 20 minutes/pages serving as a proof of concept for a feature film with nature elements. Selection based on script quality as proof of concept for a feature film, merit of previous work, and financial need. Strongly recommended to review the full page and attend (or watch the replay of) the orientation before applying.

## Compensation & Benefits

$8,000 grant plus option to shoot at a private estate in Jamaica (provided by cliveRd.)

**Includes:** Prize

## Timeline

- **Opens:** May 28, 2026
- **Deadline:** May 31, 2026

## How to Apply

Apply at: https://indyarts.org/opportunity/proof-of-concept-short-film-grant/