Purpose

To support emerging documentary filmmakers. The term "emerging" is intended to denote a person committed to the craft of making documentaries, who has demonstrated that commitment by several years -- but no more than ten -- of practical film or video experience.


Program & Limitations

Limited to organizations anywhere in the US, certified by the IRS as "public charities", which undertake to supervise any project for which individuals receive funds, and to control the selection of individual recipients of funds. The fund does not provide support for endowments, building campaigns, accumulated deficits, or ordinary operating budgets, or make grants to individuals. The fund does not support instructional or performance documentaries, student film projects or first-time filmmakers. Filmmakers are eligible for only one grant from the Pacific Pioneer Fund during their careers.


Geographical Limitations

Grants to support filmmakers are limited to filmmakers or videographers who live and work in California, Oregon and Washington.


Total Assets

Approximately $300,000


Total Annual Grants

Approximately $50,000


Grant Range

$1,000-$10,000


Funding Cycle

The board meets twice a year. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. The next application deadlines are 12/01/17, and 06/01/18. Un-selected applicants must wait one year to reapply.


Preferred Contact

Print out an application from this web site and send it, along with a VHS tape or DVD of up to 10 minutes of edited footage from the project for which support is sought, to PO Box 33, Inverness, CA 94937.   If you have questions, email Armin Rosencranz:armin@stanford.edu.