Applications Now Open for the 2026 Filmed in NC Fund

The 2026 Filmed in NC Fund is a grant program administered by Cucalorus Film Foundation in partnership with the NC Film Office, Southern Documentary Fund, Artless Media, and The Magnifying Glass. It offers financial support ranging from $500 to $3,000 to independent filmmakers in North Carolina who are permanent residents or full‑time students living in the state year‑round. Eligible projects include narrative, documentary, and experimental films with total budgets under $1.5 million. The fund encourages projects at all stages of production and prioritizes women filmmakers, filmmakers of color, and LGBTQ+ identifying filmmakers, while remaining open to all eligible NC independent filmmakers. Applications are accepted through September 30, 2026, with funding decisions announced on October 14, 2026, and recipients announced during the 32nd annual Cucalorus Film Festival in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Grant funding up to $3,000

Permanent North Carolina residents or full‑time students in NC; project budget under $1.5 million; narrative, documentary, or experimental films; all eligible NC independent filmmakers encouraged