California Documentary Project (CDP) Grants 2026-2027

Overview

The California Documentary Project (CDP) supports nonfiction film, audio and digital media projects that explore the histories, cultures, ideas and experiences that shape California. Using a humanities-based approach, it backs storytellers who bring California's diverse experiences, forms of knowledge, communities and histories to audiences across the state and beyond. Funding for 2026-2027 is available in two categories, for projects at different stages.

Research and Development Grants support documentary media projects in their earliest stages, strengthening their humanities content and approach as they move toward production. They suit projects in research, development and early planning. Production Grants support projects that have moved past that stage and are active in production, helping them advance to completion.

What you get

Research and Development Grants provide up to $15,000. Production Grants provide up to $50,000.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, and individuals working with an eligible nonprofit fiscal sponsor or a public agency.

Requirements

The project director, and the applicant organization if it is not fiscally sponsored, must be California residents. Project personnel are preferred to be California-based as far as possible. Both categories require a minimum 1:1 match of cash or in-kind contributions from non-federal sources.

How to apply

The 2026-2027 process begins with a Letter of Intent, submitted through the California Humanities grant portal. Separate starting points exist for Research and Development Grants and Production Grants.

Key dates

The deadline is October 14, 2026.