Find grants for documentaries through your state humanities department

There are are many national government programs, but they are commonly known and often overflowed with applicants. Apply with the state for less competition.

I recommend: Visit your state’s website for application deadlines and requirements, or see them listed at the International Documentary Association’s website. Also check out the grants page at the Independent Feature Project's website.

Apply for major independent documentary film grants

Many organizations fund profects. Apply for the grants that may be in line with your subject matter.

I recommend: Try the Paul Robeson Fund for Independent Media and the Playboy Foundation.

Write very good documentary grants proposals

It is very important that you write in a very professional way that represents your filmmaking abilities and the passion for your documentary when applying for film grants.

I recommend: Have a look at the Foundation Center’s reference guide for proposal writing. Also visit the National Science Foundation's Guide to Proposal Writing.

Create a business plan and budget for funding documentaries

When trying to sell the idea of your documentary to potential investors, show them a plan of exactly where there money is going.

I recommend: Get help with a business plan at Master Plans, or see sample business plans at BulletProof Business Plans.  

Try internet marketing to attract documentary filmmaking grants

The web is the best way to gain access to a lot of viewers for a small price.

I recommend: Visit Fundable. It allows you to build a page on their website about your project and collect secure online donations from anonymous donors for any amount. Advertise on Craigslist, promising credits at the end of the film.