Black Public Media Announces Open Call for Black Stories, Offering $175,000 in Funding

Black Public Media (BPM) is now accepting submissions for its 2024 Open Call, offering a total of $175,000 in funding for U.S.-based documentary projects that spotlight Black culture, characters, communities, and issues. The submission portal wen live on Tuesday, September 3, and closes on Monday, September 30 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Photo byPhoto by William Fortunato

Eligible projects can be in pre-production, production, or post-production stages and must be intended for public media distribution. Since its founding, BPM has contributed over $17 million to iconic documentaries and media projects showcasing the global Black experience.

This year, BPM invites submissions for feature-length documentaries in various styles, formats, and genres, including content for children and teens. The organization seeks compelling and nuanced narratives that bring Black communities' perspectives to the forefront of public discourse.

To apply, applicants must be the producer or director of the project, with at least three years of professional experience, or have a senior producer attached. The project must also be completed within 18 months. Detailed requirements can be found on the BPM website.

A two-tier review process, led by a panel of industry professionals, will evaluate submissions based on the story idea, production readiness, team, budget, and work samples. In December, BPM will select five finalists, each receiving a $5,000 stipend, access to a talent development program, and participation in BPM’s PitchBLACK competition. One finalist will win the prestigious $150,000 PitchBLACK Award.

“We are always amazed at the layered, nuanced stories coming from talented creatives across the country,” said BPM Executive Director Leslie Fields-Cruz in a press release. “We look forward to helping these makers bring their important work to American viewers.”