Nature inFocus Filmmaker Fellows Program (India)

They are looking for fresh perspectives and filmmakers who are interested in conservation storytelling.

These short films should shine a light on conservation measures to communicate the message to a larger audience. Visually compelling narratives that build awareness and encourage action will be the focus of this grant.

The grant will provide a unique opportunity for filmmakers to gain funding and expert mentorship that will enable them to showcase their craft at the highest level.

Topics

• Stories of Hope: In a world often defined by doom and despair, they’re searching for stories of hope, films that celebrate the power of conservation and the possibilities it unlocks. From recovering endangered species and habitat restoration projects, to community-led conservation efforts or innovative solutions to modern-day issues, they want to highlight the success stories to prove that not all is lost.
• Of Nature and Culture: Across India, nature and culture have long been intertwined—rivers worshipped as goddesses, forests protected as abodes of spirits, and wildlife revered in myths and rituals. These stories, passed down through generations, shape how communities live with and protect the natural world. They’re looking for films that explore these deep-rooted connections. From sacred groves and traditional festivals to indigenous knowledge systems and oral histories, they want to spotlight how cultural beliefs and practices continue to nurture biodiversity and inspire conservation.

Funding Information

• Grant Amount: INR 4.5 Lakhs each.

Eligibility Criteria

• The grant will be open to emerging filmmakers from India only. Candidates should provide proof of prior experience in making natural history and conservation films.
• The applicant should not have more than five years of paid experience in filmmaking.
• The applicant should not have a Producer/Director/Executive Producer credit in a broadcast film.
• Only citizens of India can apply and the films should showcase stories from the country.
• Indian citizens residing in other countries can apply as long as the film features stories from India.
• The grant is open to films in their ideation stage and also films already in progress.
• Films in progress must be self-funded and not have any external financial support to be eligible for the grant.
• All applicants must provide a brief concept note/presentation of their proposed film along with their application.
• For ongoing films, the applicants must provide footage of work in progress. Both, unedited and edited footage are admissible.

For more information, visit Nature inFocus.