The Pandora Short Film Grant (2026)

Location
United States

Open to
U.S. citizens and permanent residents creating narrative short films. Projects may be at any stage of production, from script development to post-production seeking finishing funds.

Applicants are not eligible if they have directed a feature film with a budget over $250,000 or have directed or produced television. Documentary projects are not accepted.

Application Fee
$20. Applicants who are unable to pay are encouraged to contact the organization, as financial circumstances should not prevent submission.

What's Provided

• $12,000 grant for a narrative short film project.

• Winner and finalist award packages (details announced by the organization).

• All submissions are reviewed by the organization's team, and submitted materials remain the applicant's property.

What the Applicant Must Cover
Applicants must submit:

• A screenplay.

• A lookbook/pitch deck (supporting materials such as budget, production plans, schedule, locations, casting, or footage may also be included).

• Budget information and funding plan.

• Previous artistic work or portfolio.

If selected, the funded project must enter production within 12 months of receiving the grant.

Duration
Projects receiving the grant must begin production within 12 months of the award.

Deadline
October 1, 2026.

Other Essential Notes

• Winner and finalists will be announced by November 15, 2026.

• Applications are easier to complete on a desktop computer.

• The organization states that submitted materials are not shared outside the organization and no ownership rights are claimed over submitted work.