Overview

Submissions are still open for the CFA × IMGN Film Grant. In partnership with IMGN, Cinematography for Actors Institute is awarding $4,500 to support one independent narrative or documentary project.

The centerpiece of the application is a production book built on IMGN, a production workflow platform for filmmakers. The book includes your script breakdown and script coverage, and it’s how we get to know your process as a filmmaker. Never built one? We just released a full video tutorial that walks you through it, from signup to submission.

Key dates

Early deadline: October 31, 2026
Final deadline: December 31, 2026
Winner announced and funds disbursed: January 2027

Grant Details


Award

One filmmaker receives a one-time award of $4,500 for an independent narrative or documentary project. Funds are issued by check or ACH after the winner submits an IRS Form W-9. Prizes are reportable to the IRS, and the recipient is responsible for applicable taxes.

Who can apply

  • U.S.-based filmmakers (all 50 states and Washington, D.C.), 18 and older
  • Original creators of the project, with rights or control over any underlying material
  • Narrative and documentary projects only. Music videos and experimental films are not eligible.

Cost: The application is free.

What you’ll submit

  • Filmmaker and project info: your role, a short bio, your project title, format, estimated budget, anticipated completion date, and current stage
  • Four short written responses (200 words or fewer each) about your project and your needs as an emerging filmmaker
  • Your IMGN production book, exported as a single PDF, with the script breakdown first (characters, set locations, departments) and script coverage second (logline and synopsis)

A schedule, board, or pre-visualization isn’t required, but any of them can strengthen your book.

DISCLAIMER:

Your work stays yours. You keep full ownership of your scripts, breakdowns, designs, and submitted materials. By applying, you give CFA Institute and IMGN a non-exclusive license to use your name, project title, logline, and work samples to promote the grant program.

How to Apply

  1. Sign up for IMGN. Create a free account at app.imgn.co.
  2. Watch the tutorials. Our new video walks you through the full process, and IMGN’s built-in tutorials cover script breakdown, coverage, characters, and scheduling.
  3. Build your production book. Include your script breakdown and script coverage.
  4. Export your book as a PDF.
  5. Complete the application. Add your IMGN account email, which lets us match your production book to your submission, then upload the PDF and submit.
APPLY HERE

Need help with your production book? Email Yaron at IMGN at yaron@imgn.co.

For questions about the grant itself, contact contact@cinematographyforactors.com.

About the writer

Alden Veyra