CAN I APPLY IF I DO NOT HAVE A FESTIVAL OR BROADCASTING CREDIT?

Yes, please demonstrate in writing your level of success with Arts Council grants, online distribution or related work in other areas of production, or applicable arts industry experience (E.g., I worked as a camera person for two documentaries that played at a film festival).

CAN I APPLY WITH ANOTHER MEMBER OF MY TEAM?

No, only five total candidates can participate. We do not accept two participants for one project. You can have partners on your project, but only one person will pitch. 

CAN I STILL SUBMIT TO THE LAUNCH IF I’M APPLYING FOR OTHER GRANTS OR FUNDING FOR THE SAME FILM?

Yes, The Launch is a non-exclusive opportunity. You are still eligible even if you have applied for other funding. It is required, however, that the film be completed by July 31, 2025, should your pitch be chosen as the first-place winner of the program.

WHAT KIND OF IN-KIND SERVICES ARE INCLUDED IN THE PITCH PRIZE?

The in-kind benefits are yet to be confirmed but in previous years, have included equipment rentals, post-production services, festival access, and more. The film created through The Launch program must be completed by July 31, 2025.

CAN YOU SHARE TIPS FOR MAKING MY APPLICATION STAND OUT WITH THE SELECTION COMMITTEE?

Demonstrate a commitment to media creation and documentary film in particular. Cite previous experience as applicable. 

Focus your application on one strong and compelling project that is ready to progress to the pitching stage. Only one project per participant can be workshopped throughout the program.

Illustrate your understanding of the viability of your project — project elements that require extensive travel, access, archives, music, or other potentially costly elements may detract from your application.

Share why you should be the one to tell this documentary story, and why now.

HOW MUCH TIME COMMITMENT IS REQUIRED?

There will be two 90-120 min online workshops on Aug 20 & 27, 2024 (dates subject to change).

You will also be required to be on-site in Lunenburg at Lunenburg Doc Fest (September 20, 2024 (date subject to change). 

WHAT IS THE COST OF THE PROGRAM?

It is free to apply.

HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO MAKE THE FILM?

You will have nine months before your July 31, 2025 submission to Lunenburg Doc Fest.

If you have a question that is not answered here please email dabreakthrough@lunenburgdocfest.com

The initiative is funded by the Canadian Media Fund, CBC, the Canada Arts Presentation Fund, and the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. Lunenburg Doc Fest extends its gratitude to the Atlantic Filmmakers Cooperative (AFCOOP), the Centre for Art Tapes (CFAT), Sunbelt Rentals Film & TV, Star Power Atlantic, and 902 Post Inc. for their generous in-kind support of the program.