
-
Programs
-
Get Involved
-
News and Events
-
About
Docs In Progress' Documentary Story Development Fellowship Program is targeted for filmmakers who are in the conceptual/development stage of a project. Through six monthly facilitated meetings, the Story Development Fellowship will receive advice and peer feedback. Specifically, Fellows will learn how to research, write and develop a new non-fiction film, the nature of fundraising, pitching, and targeting their audience. The documentary can be on any subject, viewpoint, or style; however we require that the project is in development/has not yet begun production. For films further along the production, see our Legacy Fellowship Program.
COHORT MEETING DATES: 6 Tuesdays - 5/23, 6/20, 7/25, 8/22, 9/26, 10/24 from 6:30-9 PM at Docs In Progress offices, Silver Spring, MD.
FEES: There is no application fee. If accepted into the Fellowship Program, Fellows pay a participation fee of $575 (due in full before the program starts).
The submission deadline for the 2023 Fellowship Programs has now closed.
---------
The Story Development Fellowship experience includes:
Other Benefits for Fellows:
WHAT IS THE DEVELOPMENT STAGE OF A DOCUMENTARY FILMS?
The development stage in documentary filmmaking is the initial phase where filmmakers shape their ideas and research into a coherent and compelling story. At this stage, the project is still at a conceptual stage, with core indicators such as:
APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS
This is the first year of our Story Development Fellowship. We encourage both first-time and more seasoned filmmakers to apply. Fellows must agree to not miss more than 1 meeting.
Docs In Progress review committee will review the individual application and assess the overall composition of the cohort in their decision-making. Filmmakers should have a solid idea that they want to develop, specific goals for how the Fellowship will help at their stage, and a willingness to give and receive feedback as part of the cohort. The Docs In Progress Documentary Development Fellowship Program is an incubator where peer-centered discussion is at the forefront.