BFI and Doc Society launch Ripple Effect Fund

The BFI Doc Society Ripple Effect Fund is a new National Lottery funded initiative that enables and empowers communities, networks and organisations to build their own inclusive vision for the independent UK documentary sector from the ground up.

If you have new and collaborative ideas to support underrepresented documentary storytellers, to reach diverse audiences or to foster closer connections and amplify the work of grassroots nonfiction champions – then this is for you.

The BFI Doc Society Ripple Effect Fund (The Ripple Effect) supports activity that can be delivered before March 2022. It is open for one round and applicants can apply for a non-recoupable grant of between £5,000-£20,000.

Please note, the Ripple Effect Fund is not a production fund and cannot support any filmmaking costs.

What the fund can support:

The BFI Doc Society Ripple Effect Fund is aimed at helping the independent documentary sector thrive and be more visible as a vital part of a vibrant independent film culture in the UK. The Ripple Effect can fund organisers to build and diversify documentary specific networks, documentary talent development activities and audience engagement work that is rooted in diversity and driven by community, particularly in areas of the UK where documentary film is underserved. The Ripple Effect will help kickstart documentary-focused ideas and activities that boost connectivity for documentary filmmakers across the UK, create inclusive opportunities for underrepresented non-fiction voices and develop new audiences.

They are looking for applications for activity that intends to achieve one or more of the following aims:

• Deliver innovative and essential documentary community activities in the UK with diversity and inclusion at the heart.
• Strengthen and deepen the ambition of diverse community groups, networks, collectives and organisations resulting in increased opportunities for documentary film.
• Increase engagement with independent documentary film within underrepresented communities.

Who can apply?

• Individuals and non-profit organisations
• UK based applicants
• Individuals who are over 18 and not in full time education

Funded activity must take place in the UK and be specifically focused on documentary. They cannot fund:

• activity that has already taken place or will have taken place prior to us making any grant award
• activity that is not community-based
• funding for the development, production or completion of documentary film
• activity that has been, or is currently supported by other BFI National Lottery funding

How to apply:

• The BFI Doc Society Ripple Effect will be open for one round between Thursday 13th May and Thursday 10th June, closing at 1pm (BST).
• Read through the guidelines for the fund here
• Take a look at the application form questions preview here.