About the Open Call

The BFI Doc Society RAD (Research & Development) Fund supports and nurtures independent non-fiction films and immersive projects by UK filmmakers, prioritizing expansive, director-led storytelling. This funding is intended to be transformative and representative of all UK society, backing ambitious, independent feature documentary films and immersive projects intended for theatrical release. It aims to stimulate new ideas and stories for longform nonfiction projects or immersive formats from first or second time feature length documentary directors and emerging to mid-career producers, recognizing the creative risk and financial challenge early development presents. The fund looks to support bold creative non-fiction films and immersive projects in early stages of development with a clear project outline and cinematic proposals with theatrical distribution intentions. It does not support films in late stages, loose themes, broadcast/commercial productions, series, or projects with existing financial resources for R&D. Grants can be used for writing time for treatments, creating visual materials, actual costs of conducting research (e.g., archive charges, travel), access to research material, consultant fees, test/research footage (not for final production), and director/producer fees for writing, equipment testing, and location visits.

What is Offered

Support of up to a maximum of £5,000 for first or second time feature length documentary directors or director/producer teams with a single feature documentary film in early development; or up to £10,000 to producers with more than one feature documentary film in early development with first or second time feature length documentary directors attached.

Requirements

Directors and producers must be based in the UK, and projects must be capable of qualifying for certification as a British film or immersive project. Applicants can apply as an individual or through their UK registered company. Applicants must be a first or second time feature-length documentary director with a single film proposal, an emerging to mid-career producer with more than one feature documentary film in early development (with first or second time feature-length documentary directors attached), or a team of producer and director with a single film proposal. Applicants must evidence a good track record in their creative field.

How to Apply

Read the fund guidelines and FAQs. Register an account on app.docsociety.org/apply/. Read the preview documents to help prepare your application. Complete your application on app.docsociety.org/apply/.