If you’re a documentary filmmaker tackling social issues, Impact Partners offers an incredible opportunity to secure substantial funding for your project. Each year, they support 10-15 projects through both their general and development funds. Filmmakers can apply for grants ranging from $30,000 to $100,000, providing a crucial boost to take your film from concept to production.
To apply, you’ll need to submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI), which includes a project synopsis, details about your team, a budget overview, and your financing needs.
What is a Letter of Inquiry (LOI)?
A Letter of Inquiry (LOI) is a concise yet impactful document that outlines the key elements of your project for potential grant providers. Its purpose is to offer a brief but compelling snapshot of your documentary, allowing the grant organization to determine if your project aligns with their mission. The LOI typically includes important details such as the project synopsis, key team members, budget, and the specific amount of funding you’re requesting.
If you’re ready to apply for the Impact Partners grant, here’s a example LOI structure to guide you through the process. Make sure to tailor it to reflect your film’s unique vision and voice, and don’t forget to emphasize the creativity and importance of your project.
Example LOI for Impact Partners Documentary Grant
Example 1: General Submissions
- Title: [Your Film Title]
- Logline: A brief, captivating summary of your documentary that introduces its central theme and significance.
- Background: Directed by [Director’s Name], an experienced filmmaker specializing in [genre/topic], and produced by [Producer’s Name], known for [previous work]. Key crew members include [names and roles].
- Project Stage: Currently in [development/production/post-production]. We’ve already completed [milestones] and are now moving towards [next stage].
- Budget: The total budget for the project is $[amount]. So far, we have raised $[amount] from [funding sources].
- Request: We are seeking additional funds to complete [specific tasks needed to move forward].
Example 2: Development Fund
- Title: Echoes of the Sea
- Logline: Echoes of the Sea follows the last surviving members of a remote coastal village as they battle environmental threats and cultural extinction.
- Background: Directed by award-winning filmmaker Anna Stevens (Winds of Change) and produced by Sarah Matthews (Shattered Horizons), with cinematography by John Foster and editing by Emily Clark.
- Access: We have exclusive access to the village’s elders and historic archives, providing intimate insight into their vanishing way of life.
- Format: This is a feature-length documentary, with potential to expand into a limited series due to the subject’s depth.
- Budget: The total budget is $400,000, of which $150,000 has been raised through private investors and grants from the Green Earth Foundation.
- Request: We are requesting $80,000 for development to cover on-location shoots, interviews with key subjects, and archival research.
- Deliverables: By the end of the development phase, we aim to deliver a 15-minute teaser, key interviews, and archival footage for further fundraising and distribution.
LOI Packaging Tips
- Header: Include your project title and specify whether it’s for the General Fund or Development Fund.
- Email Format: Begin your email with a brief introduction, such as “Dear [Grant Manager], please find attached our LOI for your consideration.”
- File Format: Ensure the LOI is submitted as a .doc or .pdf file.
- Keep it concise: Stay within 500 words, focusing on what makes your project stand out.
If you need personalized guidance on crafting a winning LOI, I offer 1:1 coaching sessions for just $47! Together, we’ll navigate the grant application process and enhance your chances of securing the funds you need to make your film a reality. Book A Session
Apply for the Impact Partners Film Grant today! Click here to apply.
For more information or assistance, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected].
