Is my project eligible?

The TFI Latin America Media Arts Fund is seeking animation, documentary or hybrid feature-length films in advanced stages of development, production or post-production with no distribution in place. Eligible films offer a compelling contemporary narrative complimented by dynamic visual storytelling. Whether through unconventional forms or more traditional means, the supported media artists are encouraged to invent, explore and redefine visions and stories that reflect their own diverse cultures.

We DO support:

• Filmmakers living and working in Mexico, South America, Central America and the Caribbean.
• Filmmakers working in a medium traditionally underrepresented in the mainstream.
• Media artists and filmmakers who are working independently of larger producers.
• Animated, documentary, or hybrid films in production or post-production status which have the potential for universal appeal.
• Films intended to be exhibited in the United States.

We DO NOT support:

• Student films.
• Stand-alone short films.
• Straight feature-length narrative films.
• Films with some sort of distribution in place.

What countries in the Caribbean are considered eligible?

The Latin America Media Arts Fund acknowledges Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic as eligible participants.

In order to be eligible, what anticipated length should my film be?

The Fund is designed to support feature-length animated, documentary, or hybrid films with a minimum intended length of 70 minutes.

What is a hybrid film?

Hybrid films are projects that are not only unconventional in form and content, but that bravely push the boundaries of what is considered a fiction (or non-fiction) work. The work in itself may have distinct stylistic components to it (ex: animation & live-action, video & film) – thus deeming it a hybrid project – but it can also blur the line between realism and representation through its content.

What are some examples of films that would qualify for funding?

Please refer to our previous grantees to get an idea of the types of films we fund.

Are films in development eligible for the Fund?

Yes, the Fund is designed to provide funds to films that are in the advanced stages of development, production, or post-production. Projects still in development, however, must be thoroughly researched and must present a substantial amount of footage to support their proposal.

Are student films eligible for the Fund?

No, unfortunately we do not accept student film submissions.

What if I am turning my grad thesis into a feature?

Yes, grad theses being turned into feature films are eligible for the Fund.

If I am a first time filmmaker, am I still eligible to apply?

We encourage both seasoned and first time filmmakers alike to apply for the Fund.

Are U.S. productions eligible for the Fund?

No, only international productions that do not have distribution previously in place are eligible.

Are animated documentary films eligible to apply?

Yes, animated documentary films are eligible, but they must be feature-length.

Submissions

How do I apply?

An application for the TFI Latin American Arts Fund consists of a series of questions that must be completed and submitted online, as well as footage that can be delivered to the Tribeca Film Institute office or uploaded onto the application.

I currently live in Latin America. Am I eligible for the Heineken Voces grant?

No. The Heineken Voces grant further extends the reach of the Latin Fund by exclusively supporting Latino artists or filmmakers living and working in the United States. The Voces grant is awarded to a feature-length narrative and a documentary project that offer new perspectives on the Latino cultural experience. Applicants who wish to apply for the Voces grant can do so through our existing application system.

NOTE: Applicants to the Heineken Voces Grant must be at least 21 years old.

What is a proposal/treatment?

Your written proposal is separate from your online application; both are required. While the online application provides us with a reference for your information, the proposal/treatment is your chance to fully introduce your film and yourself. The proposal/treatment should provide a clear overview of what happens (or what you intend to have happen) throughout your story from start to finish; introducing all of the major characters and covering all major plot points. It is important that you not only lay forth the characters and major beats, but link them together in a way that reflects the tone and style of the story you intend to tell. Treatments that are too short or too vague will not receive significant consideration. Your proposal is usually read before your work sample is viewed, so it is your chance to explain context, production notes, and your own unique approach to the project in question.

In what language does the proposal/treatment need to be in?

In order for TFI staff to more accurately evaluate the project, it is preferred that the applicant submit both an English and Spanish version of the proposal/treatment.

Can I request funding to be applied towards outreach, marketing, or distribution?

No, funds can only be applied towards the completion of a film.

I have both a trailer and a rough cut ready- which one should I submit as a sample?

The idea is for you to put forth what you consider to be your best work. We will accept all of the footage you choose to make ready and available to us, be it via postal mail or through a video-sharing website (the link of which should be shared on the application). If you choose to submit a trailer/rough cut via mailed DVD, please provide both on the same disc, marked as separate choices in the disc’s menu. Please also note on the disc itself whether both the trailer and/or rough cut are included. Sample work from the project can be in any language or dialect; however, if it is not in English it must be subtitled or include an English transcript with the footage.

I do not have a 7 minute trailer completed at this time- what should I provide as a sample?

We need a sample from the proposed film so that we can understand your project and present stage of production. A trailer is usually able to convey the subject, approach, and general scope of the project. As an alternative we are happy to look at select scenes or an assemblage. Again, we encourage you to provide any footage or supplementary materials that you believe will present your project in the absolute best light!

Can I provide a previously completed work instead of a sample from the submitted project?

No, we cannot accept a previously completed work as a work sample. You must provide a sample representative of the submitted project.

Can I e-mail you my submission materials?

No. We require that you upload any documents so that they are linked with your online application. However, you may upload project footage (trailer, scene selects and/or a rough cut) via a link posted onto your application or send in 2 DVD copies (NTSC format, Zone 0 or 1) as detailed on the application and in the Rules & Regulations page.

When is the submission deadline? Is there a fee?

Submissions are open from August 8, 2011 October 11, 2011. All materials MUST be postmarked by the final deadline.

The entry fee is $25.00 USD. Check or money order should be made payable to Tribeca Film Institute and drawn on US funds. Please reference your submission number on the check and on all of your submission materials.

What is an Artistic Statement?

The Artistic Statement is your opportunity to discuss in detail the creative vision for your project. This is where you can speak to the tone and style of the film, and to the reasoning behind your creative choices with regards to subject matter, medium, setting, etc. It’s also the place to touch upon your motivation for telling this story and for how you’ve decided to tell it.

Do you need a budget from me? Why?

While we do not require an actual budget top-sheet, we do need a thorough overview of how you will use the grant money towards the realization of your film and how you will allocate the funds. This allows TFI staff and the Awards Committee to more accurately evaluate your project and the strength of your plans for seeing it realized.

What kind of photo do I need for my application? How can I get it to you?

You should upload a photo that is at least 1200-1500 pixels in width or height and have it linked to your application. While you definitely don’t need a professional headshot, you should upload a picture that you are comfortable seeing online and in print, as it may be used for promotional purposes if your project is selected. Be sure to name your photo 'firstname_lastname.jpg' before uploading it! We cannot accept photos by mail or email.

What if there are developments with my project after I submit it?

Please keep us posted about any new project developments by emailing latinfund@tribecafilminstitute.org with the subject “UPDATE: Project Title (Application #)”. Depending on how far along we are in the review process, we will do our very best to take recent developments into consideration. That said, once submissions close, additional footage or new cuts will not be reviewed until an applicant has been declared a finalist.

Can I apply with more than one project, or apply to other TFI programs?

Yes! Upon applying to the Latin Fund, you will answer a number of preliminary questions that will determine if your project is also eligible for other programs. You only need to fill out one application per project.

To submit multiple projects for consideration, you must fill out a separate application for each.

How will I know that the Fund has received my submission materials?

You will be notified by email when submission materials have been processed. However, if DVD’s are mailed, it is recommended that you use a shipping service that provides confirmation of delivery for materials that have been mailed in.

Will the Fund return my submission materials?

No, we will be unable to return any of your submitted materials.

Selection

How are winning films selected?

Initial rounds of evaluation will be conducted and thoroughly vetted by Tribeca Film Institute staff. Final selections will be made by TFI as well as by a select group comprised of distinguished industry professionals.

When will I be notified if my film is awarded funding?

You will be notified whether or not you are granted funding by February 2012.

Besides funding, are there any other benefits to becoming a grantee?

TFI prides itself on creating strong, ongoing year-round relationships with filmmakers everywhere. Each grantee will receive unique one-on-one guidance and consultation from the Tribeca Film Institute that will help his or her film reach completion and enter the marketplace in the best possible position. Benefits include but are not limited to: rough & fine cut screenings and note sessions; mentorships; buyer screenings; festival/distribution planning and strategizing sessions; fundraising; industry and/or crew match-making and introductions; labs and master classes. 

If my project is selected to the Latin America Media Arts Fund, will it screen at the Tribeca Film Festival?

Acceptance to the Latin Fund does not indicate acceptance to the festival. Filmmakers with completed films seeking to apply to the Tribeca Film Festival should fill out a separate application by visiting www.tribecafilm.com/festival/.

Where can I find additional answers to questions?

You will find more information about the application process in our Rules and Regulations section. Our staff will be happy to answer any other questions or concerns you may have. Please contact us at latinfund@tribecafilminstitute.org or call at 212-274-8080 x51.